Narrowleaf Cottonwood is a native riparian tree of mountain streams and river corridors in the Rocky Mountain West, easily recognized by its narrow, willow-like leaves — much narrower than those of its relative the Plains Cottonwood. It grows at higher elevations than other cottonwoods, often forming pure gallery forests along cold mountain streams. In fall its foliage turns brilliant gold, making mountain canyons glow with color. Beavers heavily utilize it for dam construction and food. Its fluffy cottony seeds are dispersed by wind and water.
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