Eastern Cottonwood
Populus deltoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) is a fast-growing deciduous tree native across most of the United States. It blooms in March and April, providing early season nectar for bees, beetles, and flies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Eastern Cottonwood as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
480"–1200" H × 240"–600" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CO and 40 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Eastern cottonwood is a large, fast-growing native tree that can reach 40-100 feet tall with a broad, spreading canopy. It thrives in full sun with abundant water and produces early spring flowers that support pollinators. This deciduous tree is best suited for large properties where its substantial size can be accommodated.
Growing Eastern Cottonwood
Grow Eastern Cottonwood in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 480 to 1200 inches tall and spread 240 to 600 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Eastern Cottonwood takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely large size inappropriate for most residential lots
- Messy cottonwood fluff and leaf drop
- Fast growth can appear uncontrolled
Wildlife value
Host plant for viceroy butterfly, tent caterpillar moth.
The early spring blooms provide crucial nectar for bees, beetles, and flies when few other plants are flowering. The large canopy offers excellent nesting sites and shelter for birds.
Common questions
- Where does Eastern Cottonwood naturally grow?
- Eastern Cottonwood is native to most of the continental United States, found in 47 states from the Atlantic to the Pacific coasts. It naturally grows along rivers, streams, and floodplains.
- When does Eastern Cottonwood bloom?
- Eastern Cottonwood blooms in March and April, producing catkins before the leaves emerge. The early blooming period makes it an important early season nectar source.
- What pollinators visit Eastern Cottonwood?
- Eastern Cottonwood attracts bees, beetles, and flies. The early spring blooms provide crucial nectar and pollen when few other plants are flowering.
- What growing conditions does Eastern Cottonwood prefer?
- Eastern Cottonwood thrives in full sun with high moisture conditions. It naturally grows along waterways and can tolerate periodic flooding, though it adapts to medium water conditions in cultivation.
- Is Eastern Cottonwood toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Eastern Cottonwood as toxic to livestock.
- Is Eastern Cottonwood HOA-friendly?
- Eastern Cottonwood takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Eastern Cottonwood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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