Eastern cottonwood is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree native to eastern North America and the Great Plains, where it has shaped riparian landscapes for centuries. It grows 50 to 80 feet tall, occasionally reaching 120 feet, with a broad, open-rounded form and distinctive yellowish twigs, coarsely toothed leaves, and gummy end buds. Hardy from zones 2 to 9, this species thrives in full sun and tolerates drought once established, making it a valuable choice for rain gardens and as a shade tree in landscapes where fast growth and natural character are priorities.
Full Sun
Moderate
2-9
960in H x 720in W
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High
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Yellowish twigs and gummy end buds give eastern cottonwood a striking appearance year-round, while its fast growth habit and broad crown provide substantial shade within a relatively short timeframe. It develops an extensive root system without the invasive sprouting habits of aspens, and its proven tolerance for both drought and urban conditions means it adapts to challenging sites where other large trees struggle. The species evolved along streams and in lowland areas throughout the Great Plains, so it carries the resilience of a tree born to unpredictable conditions.
Eastern cottonwood serves as a shade tree for large properties and as a stabilizing species in rain gardens where its tolerance for both wet and dry conditions proves beneficial. Its fast growth makes it valuable for quickly establishing structure in landscapes, while its native range and ecological adaptation support its use in restoration projects and naturalistic plantings.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Transplant container-grown cottonwoods in spring or early fall, spacing them 35 to 60 feet apart to accommodate mature width. Ensure the planting site receives full sun and has well-drained to medium-textured soil. Water deeply after planting to settle soil and encourage root establishment.
Prune eastern cottonwood in late winter or early spring to remove deadwood, crossing branches, and weak growth. The species develops a naturally broad, open-rounded form, so heavy pruning is rarely necessary; focus instead on maintaining structural integrity and removing branches that show dieback or canker development.
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“Eastern cottonwood's story is woven into the westward expansion of European settlers across North America. Native from the eastern seaboard through the Great Plains, it naturally colonized stream banks, river bottoms, and swamp margins, becoming a landmark of water-edge ecosystems. As pioneers pushed westward, the tree's rapid growth and ability to establish in disturbed soils made it invaluable for providing shelter and shade in newly settled landscapes. Its presence in the Great Plains marked water sources and offered relief in open country, earning it a place in both ecological memory and agricultural history.”