Eastern cottonwood, AKA trembling cottonwood, is the largest of the North American poplar trees and one of the fastest-growing trees in the country. It’s also a preferred nesting tree for bald eagles. These trees generally live 70-100 years and may grow to be quite large. The largest (136 feet) eastern cottonwood tree east of the Mississippi River stands near Alum Creek State Park in Ohio.
 
Cottonwood is usually found growing along streams and rivers, in naturalized areas and woodlands.  It thrives in wet or low spots where other large trees may not flourish and can survive long periods of partial flooding.  It is a poor selection for urban areas or near houses because branches frequently fall and the vigorous roots can buckle sidewalks and damage sewer lines.  It performs well as a specimen or shade tree in a large open space.
 
Plant Characteristics:
Grows 70-100’ tall and 35-60’ wide.  If no nearby competition, spread may be as wide as height.
 
Prefers full sun; intolerant of shade.
 
Grows in variety of soils, medium to wet. Somewhat drought tolerant once established.
 
Male eastern cottonwoods produce reddish catkins, while females produce yellowish-green catkins that are followed by fluffy, cotton-like seeds that are dispersed by water or wind.  
 
Fall foliage is yellow-gold.
 
Wildlife Value:
Eastern cottonwood is a host plant for 287 species of Lepidoptera, including the promethea silk moth and the question mark butterfly. The combined ecosystem of cottonwood and marshlands provides an amazing habitat for many different species of animals.  Researchers estimate about 40 different animal species benefit from these trees, including insects, birds, deer and smaller mammals.  The bark and leaves of saplings are eaten by field mice, rabbits, deer, beavers, and domestic livestock.  Many types of raptors use cottonwoods as nesting sites, and the hollow areas that form as the tree ages serve as shelter for wildlife.  
 
Medicinal and Edible Uses:
The cambium was eaten by North American natives - it was cut into strips, then boiled or dried and ground and mixed with flour to make bread or mush for a meal high in vitamin C. 
 
Herbalists use the buds and bark of cottonwood to treat aches and pains, skin health, and digestive issues.