This deciduous tree forms a fastigate to columnar habit with ascending branches and a greyish trunk. The triangular-shaped leaves are dark green turning yellow during autumn and the tiny flowers are reddish appearing during spring.

Hardiness zones 6 to 10 

Populus nigra var. Italica is naturally found in northern Italy growing in valleys along river banks and adjoining woodlands. 

It grows in a variety of well drained to wet moderately fertile sandy to clay loams that are acidic or alkaline and prefers an open sunny position and is frost, wind and drought tolerant. 

The Lombardy tree is grown for its columnar habit and autumn foliage colour. It is commonly planted in rows as a windbreak along roadways or boundaries and is used in avenue plantings. It is also grown along river banks for binding and can be used for screening. It establishes in 3-4 years but is commonly short lived 10 - 15 years due to its susceptible to canker. It is ideal for Mediterranean gardens but care should be taken as this tree suckers and the roots are invasive. ID 15

Populus (POP-yoo-lus) nigra (NEEG-rah) Var. Italica

'Populus': from arbor populi - people's tree (refers to the ancient Roman use of this tree in public parks); 'nigra': black.

Salicaceae (sal-i-KAY-see-ee)
Willow and Poplar Family