Balsam Poplar vs Kentucky Coffeetree - TreeTime.ca

Balsam Poplar vs Kentucky Coffeetree

Populus balsamifera

Gymnocladus dioicus

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Balsam Poplar
Kentucky Coffeetree

Balsam Poplar is a hardy, fast-growing deciduous tree that is Native to Canada east of the Rockies.

We grow them in two variations. Sometimes they are a male clones, so they don't produce fluff. Other times, we grow them from seed, which will result in fluff. The detailed descriptions (see below) will tell you which is which.

The Kentucky Coffeetree has the largest leaves of any native tree in North America! In the summer, its large green canopy provides shade. While in the winter, its leathery bean pods act as a decorative element against the sky as they rattle in the wind. Beautiful year-round, this tree is an elegant addition to any landscape.

Balsam Poplar Quick Facts

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 3a
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: long
Suckering: medium
Suckering: high


Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans
Fall colour: golden yellow
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Fuzz/fluff: see description
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no

In row spacing: 2.4 - 3 m (8 - 10 ft)

Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
Other Names: bam, bamtree, eastern balsam poplar, hackmatack, tacamahac
Other Names: coffeetree