The Cottonless Cottonwood (usually a male selection of Populus deltoides) is a specialized cultivar of the classic Eastern Cottonwood. It was bred to provide the incredible shade and rapid growth of the native tree without the "snowstorm" of messy, fuzzy white seeds (the "cotton") that typically clogs pool filters and air conditioners in late spring.This tree is deciduous and has large, heart-shaped Glossy leaves that turn bright golden yellow in the fall. Much like an Aspen, the flattened leaf stems (petioles) cause the leaves to flutter and "clatter" in even the slightest breeze, creating a relaxing water-like sound.
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Scientific Name
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Populus deltoides (e.g., 'Siouxland' or 'Robusta') |
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Foliage: Deciduous
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Leaves: Large, heart-shaped (deltoid), and have a glossy green finish. In the fall the leaves turn a bright golden yellow.
Bark: When young, the bark is smooth and silvery-grey. As it matures, it becomes deeply furrowed with thick, dark grey ridges, giving it a very rugged look.
The "Cottonless" Nature: Because these are male clones, they produce pollen catkins in the spring but never produce the seeds or the white fluff associated with the species.
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Mature Height
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50-80 feet |
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Mature Width (Spread)
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35-50 feet |
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Growth Rate
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Extremely Fast (can grow 4-6 feet per year) |
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USDA Zone
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3-9 |
Plant Care & Characteristics
Light Requirements: Full Sun. This tree is a "pioneer species." It needs maximum sunlight (8+ hours) to support its aggressive growth. It will not thrive in the shade of other trees.
Water Requirements: High. Cottonwoods are "water-seekers." In nature, they grow along riverbanks. In a home landscape, they need deep, regular watering, especially during the first few years.
Drought Resistance: Low to Moderate. While they can survive dry spells once mature, they will drop leaves prematurely to conserve water. They are not recommended for extremely arid environments without supplemental irrigation.
Soil Type: Adaptable but prefers moist loams. They can handle heavy clay and even "wet feet" (poorly drained areas), which makes them great for low spots in a yard that stay damp.
Deer Resistance: Moderate. Deer will browse the young, tender branches of saplings, but they generally leave mature trees alone.
Management Warning- The Cottonless Cottonwood is the ultimate "instant shade" tree, but its speed comes with a price:
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Short-Lived: Unlike an Oak that lives for centuries, a Cottonwood is often considered "old" at 50–70 years.
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Brittle Wood: Because it grows so fast, the wood is relatively soft. During high winds or ice storms, it is prone to dropping large branches.
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Be warned—this tree has a very aggressive, shallow root system. It is notorious for finding leaky sewer pipes or lifting up sidewalks and driveways. Never plant this tree close to a house. A good rule of thumb is to plant it at least 40–50 feet away from any structure or underground utility lines.
