132469 Lombardy-poplar Populus nigra ‘Italica’ (Salicaceae) HEIGHT to 36m. Distinctive, narrowly columnar tree. Gnarled bole supports numerous short, ascending branches that taper towards narrow pointed crown. Otherwise similar to Black-poplar with slightly more triangular leaves. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Typical, slender Lombardy-poplars are all males, bearing reddish catkins. Female trees, known as var. ‘Gigantea’, are scarce and have thicker, spreading branches that give tree a broader crown. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Native of Italy, introduced to Britain in mid-18th century. Tolerates a wide range of soils and climates. Often planted in long lines.
