Northwest Poplar vs Balsam Poplar - TreeTime.ca

Northwest Poplar vs Balsam Poplar

Populus balsamifera

Populus x jackii Northwest

Balsam Poplar
Northwest Poplar

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.

Northwest Poplar is a large and fast-growing tree. Due to its wide spread, this tree makes a great shade or shelterbelt tree. Northwest Poplar tolerates partial shade, drought, and most types of soil. This poplar produces no fuzz.

Northwest Poplar continues to be popular as a shelterbelt species due to the great cost savings that come from the wide spread of the branches. It is a staff favorite because of the wonderful shade it provides all summer long.

Balsam Poplar Quick Facts

Northwest Poplar Quick Facts

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Zone: 2a
Zone: 2a
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 14 m (45 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal
Moisture: any
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: very fast
Life span: medium
Life span: short
Suckering: medium
Suckering: high


Fall colour: golden yellow
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: yes
Fuzz/fluff: see description
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no

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

In row spacing: 2.4 - 3 m (8 - 10 ft)
Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, NU, PE
Other Names: bam, bamtree, eastern balsam poplar, hackmatack, tacamahac
Other Names: balm of gilead, jacks aspen, jacks hybrid poplar