Damp Conditions

• According to the Native State Dacota University, the white poplar is sometimes confused with the silver maple because leaves on the longer shoots are shaped like those found on a maple tree. The tree is a native in western Siberia and in central and southern Europe, where it is very commonly seen growing in the countryside in shady and damp areas that contain marshes, ponds and rivers.
  
  

Common Species

• The white poplar was originally brought to America by early European settlers and has now naturalized into the local landscape and can reach 80 feet tall. Quaking aspen grows in cooler climates. It thrives when planted on gravel slopes and in moist soils and is commonly found across North America. Eastern cottonwood is a hardwood poplar, which grows 5 feet a year and is found growing in damp soils in the eastern areas of America. Lombardy poplar trees grow to 100 feet tall and can be found across the world in regions that have mild temperatures.
  
  

Lombardy

• In France, Lombardy poplar trees are planted in long rows along roadsides to form a visually striking path for drivers through the countryside. They are a particular characteristic of the Gascony region, in the southwest part of the country, which is known for its woodland landscape and flowing rivers; it has the largest wooded area in western Europe. Many people who own holiday homes in the area enjoy walking in the region's forests.
  
  

Black Poplars

• Britain's most rare native is the black poplar, which, according to the Sussex Otters & Rivers Project is in danger of becoming extinct; there are only around 700 trees left. It was once common in winter-flooded woodland but since the 17th century has been in decline due to agricultural drainage. The species is included on the European Forest Genetic Resources Programme that aims to improve the management of forests. During Victorian times, it was used to make cartwheels, clogs, arches and baskets because it is naturally springy and curves well.
  
  

Earthy Aroma

• Morels or truffles, as they are known in Europe, can be found growing near roots of poplar and aspen trees. They grow in potassium-rich soils that are damp and cool, and lack nitrogen and phosphorous. Gastronomes believe they absorb the flavor of the trees and soil to produce their characteristic earthy aroma. Only white morels and truffles, rather than black ones, can be found growing near poplar trees.