Lombardy Poplar is a fast-growing deciduous tree known for its tall, columnar shape and distinctive vertical growth habit. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, it serves as an effective windbreak and visual screen due to its rapid growth and dense foliage. The tree can reach heights of up to 30 meters and is characterized by its narrow, upright form, making it suitable for planting in rows along field boundaries or as part of a shelterbelt system. It plays a crucial role in soil stabilization and erosion control, particularly in areas prone to wind erosion. Its extensive root system helps bind the soil, while its fallen leaves contribute organic matter, enhancing soil fertility over time. In a food forest, it serves as an overstory layer, providing shade and habitat for wildlife. Historically, it has been used for timber and biomass production. Companion plants include nitrogen-fixing species like clover and understory shrubs that benefit from its shade.
Growing Details
Lombardy Poplar thrives in full sun and well-drained soils but is adaptable to a range of soil types, including poor soils. Soil preparation should include deep tilling to accommodate its extensive root system. Mulching with organic materials helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as clover can enhance soil nitrogen levels. Common beginner mistakes include planting in overly compacted soils and neglecting water needs during establishment. Optimal harvest for wood product
Edible Parts
Tags
Hedge Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Invasive Visual Appeal Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Populus nigra 'Italica'</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western A
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(1/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, parts of the poplar tree have been used in herbal medicine for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The buds contain salicin, a precursor to salicylic acid, which is related to aspirin. However, the medicinal use of Lombardy Poplar is limited compared to other species. Caution is advised as some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
health concerns: The tree produces a large amount of pollen, which can be an allergen for some individuals.
other uses: Lombardy Poplar wood is used for making pulp and paper, as well as in the production of plywood and other wood products. The tree is also used for biomass production and as a source of renewable energy.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Populus nigra 'Italica'
common names: Lombardy Poplar; Italian Poplar; Black Poplar
family: Salicaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Populus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 3.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / -20ยฐC / 40ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 30.0 m
max width: 3.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Dioecious
growth details: Lombardy Poplar thrives in full sun and well-drained soils but is adaptable to a range of soil types, including poor soils. Soil preparation should include deep tilling to accommodate its extensive root system. Mulching with organic materials helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as clover can enhance soil nitrogen levels. Common beginner mistakes include planting in overly compacted soils and neglecting water needs during establishment. Optimal harvest for wood product
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids, caterpillars, and poplar rust. Natural pest management strategies include introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphids, and parasitic wasps for caterpillars. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes. Organic sprays like neem oil can be used to manage rust.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
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