Black Cottonwood is the largest native poplar in North America, reaching 200 feet along Pacific Coast rivers and stream corridors. Its aromatic buds produce a fragrant balsam scent in spring. It is a dominant riparian tree supporting bald eagles, osprey, and many cavity-nesting ducks. Beavers rely on it for food and dam construction material.
Best time to see a Black Cottonwood
The best time to see a Black Cottonwood is April–August, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 6,759 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Black Cottonwood? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Black Cottonwood sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Black Cottonwood?
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