The Botanical Diary
L
Ornamental

Lombardy poplar

Populus nigra 'Italica'

Poplar absorbs CO₂ ten times faster than any other tree in Ukraine.

Regions
all regions
Colour
Бурий (сережки)
Lombardy poplar
🌸
Bloom
April (сережки)
☀️
Light
Full sun
💧
Watering
High
📏
Height
15–30 m
❄️
Hardiness
Zone 4а

Lombardy poplar — one of the most celebrated ornamental forms of black poplar, which emerged in Italy during the eighteenth century. This tree swiftly captivated gardeners throughout Europe and subsequently spread across the globe. Its origins are precise: it is a clone discovered along the Po River, and its columnar shape is transmitted exclusively through cuttings, making each tree an exact replica of its parent plant.

The defining characteristic of Lombardy poplar is its nearly geometric vertical silhouette, which lends it a distinctive architectural charm. Unlike its spreading cousins, the branches of this tree grow densely against the trunk, creating a slender, upright profile. In spring, the tree is adorned with delicate reddish flowers that bloom unobtrusively, followed by pearl-like catkins. The foliage is rhomboid and light green, rustling in the breeze with the gentlest whisper.

In the garden, Lombardy poplar becomes a true focal point — plant it as a solitary specimen for dramatic effect, or in rows along pathways and boundaries to create a living screen from neighbours. It integrates readily alongside willows, birches, and maples, yet its distinctive slenderness shines best in a starring role. The tree is undemanding regarding soil but loves sunny spots and adequate watering, particularly during its first years after planting.

Lombardy poplar is a champion at absorbing carbon dioxide, doing so ten times faster than other trees in Ukraine. This makes it not merely beautiful but also ecologically valuable for towns and private gardens. If you seek a tree that looks noble, grows vigorously, and delivers genuine benefit to the surrounding environment — Lombardy poplar awaits you.

Location & soil

Lombardy poplar — planting & location

LightFull sun
Soil typeСуглинок, рН 6–7,5
Planting timeOctober або April
Plant spacing4–6 m
Planting depthAt root collar level

Distinctive vertical columnar form

Water needs

How to water Lombardy poplar

IntensityHigh
FrequencyMay–August (молоді)
Volume15–20
MethodAt the base

Young plants require frequent watering

Annual care

Fertilizing and pruning: Lombardy poplar

Spring fertilizingNitrogen (April, for young plants)
Summer fertilizingDo not fertilise
Autumn fertilizingDo not fertilise
Pruning timeFebruary–March (sanitary)
Pruning typeSanitary

Remove dead branches

Cold hardiness

Lombardy poplar — winter hardiness & care

Hardiness zoneZone 4а
Winter coverNot required
Cover timing
Plant protection

Diseases and pests of Lombardy poplar

Garden design

What grows well with Lombardy poplar?

Верба, береза, клен