Populus Alba - White Poplar

Populus alba, commonly known as White Poplar, is a medium-sized, fast-growing tree prized for its striking ornamental foliage and hardy nature. Native to western and southern Europe, it was introduced into Britain after the last Ice Age and has since become a popular choice for hedging, shelter belts, and specimen planting in parks and large gardens.

The White Poplar is a suckering tree, which allows it to form clumps and provide a natural screen. Its large, maple-like leaves are covered in a distinctive white down on the underside, creating a stunning contrast with the dark green upper surface. Even a light breeze highlights this shimmering effect, making it an eye-catching addition to any landscape.

Highly adaptable, White Poplar thrives on a range of soils including chalk and wet ground, and it tolerates coastal salt spray and strong winds. Dioecious in nature, male and female flowers grow on separate trees, producing catkins in late winter and early spring. Female trees produce fluffy seeds in June, which are dispersed by the wind, enhancing natural propagation.

This is the size and type we sell: Populus alba White Poplar 40–60cm 0+1, grown for both ornamental and shelter planting purposes.

Features & Benefits

Medium-sized, fast-growing deciduous tree

Highly ornamental foliage with white underside

Suckering habit allows natural clump formation

Tolerant of a wide range of soils and wet conditions

Resistant to coastal winds and salt spray

Dioecious flowers produce attractive catkins and seeds

Excellent for shelter belts, parks, and large gardens

Applications

Shelter belts and windbreaks

Ornamental specimen trees for parks and gardens

Coastal and exposed site planting

Hedging and natural screening

Wildlife-friendly planting schemes

Height & Spread (Approximate)

After 10 years: 9m height x 4m spread

After 20 years: 15m height x 7m spread

Growth assumes suitable site conditions.

Botanical Name | Populus alba

Common Name | White Poplar

Plant Type | Deciduous tree

Growth Rate | Fast

Mature Height | 15m

Mature Spread | 7m

Soil Type | Most soils including chalk and wet sites

Aspect | Full sun to partial shade

Hardiness | Fully hardy in the UK

Plant Size & Type | 40–60cm 0+1

Maintenance | Minimal; prune to shape or remove unwanted suckers

Wildlife Value | Supports insects, butterflies, and moths