Tree Trail

8. Populus x canescens

The Grey Poplar is a hybrid between Populus alba (White Poplar) and Populus tremula (Common Aspen). A very vigourous tree, it is larger than either of its parents reaching 40 metres (130 feet) tall. It has a very extensive root system and should not be planted within 12 metres (40 feet) of buildings. Because it is tolerant of salt winds and is fast growing, it is often used as a shelterbelt tree.

The bark of most of this Genus contains Salicin from which we get Aspirin which is useful as a painkiller, an anti-inflammatory and for reducing fever. Aspirin is often used to treat or prevent Heart attacks, Strokes, Chest pain and menstrual cramps.