Populus fremontii

Common Names

Fremont Cottonwood, Alamo Cottonwood, Western Cottonwood, Arizona Cottonwood, Gila Cottonwood, Cottonwood, Poplar, Fremont's Cottonwood, Frémont's Cottonwood

Summary

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Fremont cottonwood is a native, fast-growing riparian deciduous tree of the American Southwest, typically forming a broad crown with a smooth to lightly furrowed trunk as it ages. It has broad, heart-shaped leaves with fluttering petioles and long, drooping catkins; wind-dispersed seeds carry fluffy cottony hairs. This species occurs along streams, floodplains, and other moist alluvial bottomlands from the southwestern United States into northern Mexico, and it is commonly found in riparian habitats where ample water and full sun support growth; autumn foliage ranges to yellow.

For cultivation, it tolerates a range of soils from sandy to clay and requires regular moisture; it is fast-growing and suitable for large landscapes, restoration projects, erosion control, and shade in riparian settings. Practical considerations include its shallow, aggressive root system that can disrupt drainage or foundations and should be kept away from lawns or built structures; plant with ample space. Propagation is via seed (viable only days) or vegetative methods such as cuttings or pole planting, and male trees are often sold to reduce cotton production from females.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

39-115 feet

Spread

20-33 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5a–8b

Sunlight Requirements

Full Sun (at least 6 hours/day)

Soil Type

Well-drained alluvial soils (sandy to sandy-clay loams)

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

6.0-8.0

Bloom Color

White, Yellow, Cream

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Green to yellow-green, turning yellow in autumn.

Fall Foliage Color

Bright yellow, also orange, rarely red

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Very fast growth, up to about 30 ft per year; fast-growing when young and slows with maturity.

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and birds