Mountain Cottonwood
Populus angustifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Mountain Cottonwood as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
360"–720" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AZ, CO, ID, MT and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Mountain cottonwood is a fast-growing native tree that can reach 30-60 feet tall with a broad, spreading crown. It produces distinctive narrow leaves that flutter in the breeze and small catkin flowers in spring. This tree thrives in moist conditions and provides excellent shade once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mountain 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 mature size inappropriate for most residential lots
- High water requirements conflict with typical HOA drought-tolerant preferences
- Produces abundant cotton-like seeds that create mess and maintenance issues
Wildlife value
The spring catkins attract bees and beetles for pollination. The large canopy provides nesting sites and shelter for various birds and wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Mountain Cottonwood need?
- Mountain Cottonwood grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Mountain Cottonwood bloom?
- Mountain Cottonwood blooms in April and May.
- Where is Mountain Cottonwood native?
- Mountain Cottonwood (Populus angustifolia) is native to AZ, CO, ID, MT and 7 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Mountain Cottonwood toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Mountain Cottonwood as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Mountain Cottonwood attract?
- Mountain Cottonwood draws bees and beetles.
- Is Mountain Cottonwood HOA-friendly?
- Mountain 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 Mountain Cottonwood? 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