Prairie Sky Poplar

*ORDERING QUANTITIES - our seedlings are sold in bulk*
10 - 27 cu. in. seedlings are sold in bundles of 24 (1 unit = 24 seedlings)
100 & 175 cu. in. seedlings are sold in bundles of 9 (1 unit = 9 seedlings)

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MITOSIS- Montana Interagency Tree Or Shrub Improvement Study. This study was a cooperative effort to evaluate the performance of various species of plants in established Montana plantings. The selected plantings were evaluated for over ten years and the best performing plants were selected for seed orchard establishment at the nursery.

Natural Habitat: Hybrid poplar cultivar developed for prairie and northern plains climates. Not naturally occurring; selected for cold hardiness, upright form, and rapid growth. Commonly planted in shelterbelts, farmsteads, urban landscapes, and along roadsides.

Foliage / Flowers: Glossy dark green triangular leaves with serrated margins; bright yellow fall color. Inconspicuous spring catkins; male clone — no cottony seed production.

Light Requirements: Full sun.

Growth Rate: Very fast.

20-year Height: 40–55 feet tall; narrow upright spread 8–12 feet.

Elevation Range: Up to 5,500 feet.

Cold Hardiness: Zone 2–7.

Wind Tolerance: High, excellent for windbreaks and snow control.

Soil Preference: Prefers moist, well-drained loams and sandy soils; tolerates clay if drainage is adequate. Performs best with consistent moisture.

Alkali / Saline Soil Tolerance: Low to moderate tolerance.

Life Span: 30–50 years (short-lived compared to native trees).

Minimum Annual Precipitation: 16–18 inches (irrigation recommended during establishment).

Drought Tolerance: Low to moderate, requires supplemental moisture in dry sites.

Windbreak Spacing: 8–12 feet between trees within a row; 16–24 feet between rows for multi-row plantings.

Potential Pests / Disease: Poplar borer, leaf spot, cankers, aphids, leaf rust; branch breakage possible during heavy snow or ice.

Deer Resistance: Low, highly palatable when young.

Wildlife Value:
• Perching and nesting habitat for birds