Mountain Cottonwood
Populus angustifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
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.
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 Mountain Cottonwood fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.