270 TREES OF MINNESOTA. 



Populus nigra. Black Poplar. 



Leaves broadly triangular, sometimes with tapering or 

 rounded base, smaller, less deeply toothed and shorter in propor- 

 tion to their width than those of the Cottonwood, which they 

 resemble; leaf stock flattened. The tree has generally a pyramidal 

 habit of growth and dark foliage. It is less lustrous than the 

 Cottonwood, and grows more slowly. This is probably the tree 

 known in some localities as Norway Poplar or Norway Cotton- 

 wood. What has been senjt out under the name of Populus 

 bctiilifolia is probably a form of this species. 



Distribution. Europe and Asia. "It must now, however, 

 be regarded as naturalized in this country, having become 

 thoroughly established in many localities." 



Propagation. Almost entirely by cuttings in this country. 

 Properties of wood. Light, soft, compact, not strong. Specific 

 gravity of air-dried wood 0.45. 



i. Uses. The Black Poplar and its several varie- 



.*i ties are used for shade and ornamental trees 



^.V .. where a quick effect is needed. The wood is 

 '>';.; used fof cheap packing cases, crates and for light 

 fuel. In pharmacy the buds are used for preserv- 

 ing fats. 



Varieties. 



Populus nigra italica. 

 I/ombardy Poplar. 



A common tree with upright branches, 

 making a very straight columnar growth, and 

 on this account very conspicuous. Leaves small 

 and generally with a more tapering base than 

 Lombardy the species. This is one of the characteristic 

 Poplar. trees of Italy. Its common name is derived from 

 Lombardy, one of the provinces of Italy. The tree is supposed 

 to be a native of Persia and Asia Minor. Its peculiar form gives 

 the landscape a crude look where it is much used. Single speci- 

 mens, however, may be occasionally planted to advantage to 

 give variety to shelter belts. It is hardy in moist soil, and on 

 our average prairie soil makes a good growth while young, but 

 soon becomes ragged in the top, and loses some of its branches 

 and occasionally dies. When it luvomes ragged in appearance 



