Cottonwood Trees (or Poplar Trees) are deciduous trees in the Populus genus of the Willow family. Other members of the willow family include willow trees and brushholly.
Cottonwood Street and Poplar Lane in Woodland are both named for the trees in the Populus genus. There are about 25–30 species in this genus, but only one is native to Woodland. Additionally, one non-native species is sometimes planted by the city of Woodland.
Poplar or cottonwood trees are a major cause of hay fever. They typically bloom from about February through March, so if you suffer from hay fever during those months, these trees could be the culprits.
Native to Woodland
Frémont's Cottonwood (Populus fremontii) is native to Woodland and to all of Yolo County. It is planted at the Dick Klenhard Ballfield Complex and at Pioneer Park. It can grow to be more than 100 feet tall and about 35 feet wide. It prefers full sun and does not need anywhere near as much water as Willow Trees do. It can grow just about anywhere! Frémont's Cottonwood trees can be either male or female. Only the male trees produce pollen, but the male trees are ranked 9 out of 10 on the Ogren Plant Allergy Scale, indicating that they tend to cause severe hay fever.
Non-Native
Lombardy Poplar (Populus nigra 'Italica') is from the Mediterranean region and Asia. It is planted at Joseph Schneider Park and Campbell Park. It usually grows about 65 to 100 feet tall. The 'Italica' cultivar was selected in Italy and is columnar, with narrow branch crotches that are structurally weak; at about 40 to 50 years old, these trees tend to begin dropping branches. They are also easily blown over in high winds. Furthermore, their spreading, thirsty roots can destroy pipes and drainage systems. Lombardy Poplar trees can be either male or female. Only the male trees produce pollen, but the male trees are ranked 9 out of 10 on the Ogren Plant Allergy Scale, indicating that they tend to cause severe hay fever.
