Fremont's Cottonwood
Populus fremontii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
300"–600" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AZ, CA, ID, NM and 3 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fremont's cottonwood is a fast-growing native tree that can reach 25-50 feet tall with a broad, spreading canopy. This deciduous tree produces catkins in spring and provides excellent shade, but requires consistent moisture to thrive. It's best suited for large properties with adequate space and water access.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fremont's 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
- High water requirements conflict with desert landscaping goals
- Cottonwood fluff and leaf drop create maintenance issues
Wildlife value
Host plant for Western tiger swallowtail.
The spring catkins attract bees and beetles for pollination. The large canopy provides nesting sites for birds and the tree supports various native insects.
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.
Does Fremont's Cottonwood fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.