Lombardy Poplar
Populus nigra
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Lombardy Poplar as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
360"–720" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
VT
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lombardy poplar is a fast-growing, columnar tree that creates a distinctive tall, narrow silhouette in the landscape. It's often used for windbreaks or screening but has a relatively short lifespan and can develop structural problems as it matures. This deciduous tree produces early spring blooms before the leaves emerge.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lombardy Poplar 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 mature size inappropriate for most residential lots
- Short lifespan and disease susceptibility create maintenance concerns
- Aggressive root system can damage foundations and utilities
Wildlife value
Host plant for viceroy butterfly, large poplar sphinx moth.
The early spring flowers provide nectar for bees and beetles when few other food sources are available. The tree also serves as habitat for various birds and insects throughout the growing season.
Common questions
- How much sun does Lombardy Poplar need?
- Lombardy Poplar grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Lombardy Poplar bloom?
- Lombardy Poplar blooms in April and May.
- Where is Lombardy Poplar native?
- Lombardy Poplar (Populus nigra) is native to VT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Lombardy Poplar toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Lombardy Poplar as toxic to livestock.
- What butterflies or moths does Lombardy Poplar host?
- Lombardy Poplar is a larval host plant for viceroy butterfly and large poplar sphinx moth.
- Is Lombardy Poplar HOA-friendly?
- Lombardy Poplar 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 Lombardy Poplar? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz