APPEARANCE
This tree can grow to be about 40 metres tall, with triangular or heart-shaped leaves. The trunk becomes grey and has deep grooves when it gets older. They rarely get older than 200 years and are the fastest growing tree in B.C. (up to two metres per year).
RANGE & HABITAT
Black cottonwoods are common in wet areas, usually at low elevations. However, they will sometimes grow in wet subalpine areas. They don’t like shade but can survive flooding and frost.
LIFE CYCLE
The bead-like fruit is smooth and green. It splits into three parts, releasing fluffy white seeds that float through the air and look like cotton.
ANIMAL USES
Black cottonwood trees are important for stream habitats. They stabilize river banks and provide shade. The leaves are a food source for insects in the water. Twigs and buds are food for deer, moose, and elk. Beavers eat the bark and use stems for dams and woodpeckers nest in old trees.
TRADITIONAL USES BY INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
Fluffy seeds can be used as stuffing for pillows and inner bark is used to make soap and tea. Sticky buds can make ointment and glue. Large trees are used to make dug-out canoes.
OTHER USES
The pulp of black cottonwood trees is used for books and magazines. The light-coloured wood is also useful for making boxes and furniture.
STATUS
COSEWIC: Not at Risk
CDC: Yellow
MORE INFORMATION
Photo: Nancy Turner
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