Characteristics and Problems of Lombardy Poplar Trees

Overview

Lombardy poplars (Populus nigra ‘Italica’) are willow-family members, fast-growing, often planted in rows as windbreaks. Recognizable but have serious drawbacks.

Visual Traits

Narrow, tall, thin with diamond/triangular leaves. Usually die before reaching 40 ft max height. Average width 11 ft. Summer: bright green leaves rustle pleasantly. Fall: bright yellow. Branches start low, grow nearly vertical parallel to trunk.

Growing Habits

Shallow, wide-spreading roots become invasive, lift sidewalks/driveways. Weak wood snaps in ice/wind. Suckers sprout aggressively from base and along roots.

Disease Issues

Highly susceptible to stem canker disease (kills from crown down, ruins form). Also vulnerable to vascular disease, borers, and leaf spot (fungal). University of Florida experts advise against home landscape planting.