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Lanceleaf Poplar

Populus x acuminata

Compiled by · Reviewed against the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List, CSU Extension & Plant Select® · Updated 2026-07-03

Lanceleaf Poplar (Populus x acuminata) is a Colorado-native tree suited to the Colorado Front Range, rated "Recommended" on the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List. It matures to about 40–60 ft tall and 30–40 ft wide, fast-growing, needs medium water, and prefers full sun. Too big for small yards; Plant male cultivar.

Site fitRecommended
Colorado nativemedium water40–60 ft tall and 30–40 ft wideDeer-resistant

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At a glance

Rating
Recommended
Botanical name
Populus x acuminata
Variety / cultivar
Lanceleaf
Type
Tree
Mature size
40–60 ft tall and 30–40 ft wide
Mature form
Oval / upright
Spacing / clearance
~40 ft of clearance
Hardiness zones
USDA 3–8
Growth rate
Fast
Lifespan
Short-lived
Fall color
Gold, yellow
Water needs
medium water
Sun
Best in full sun.
Colorado native
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Soil
clay, loam, sandy
Soil pH
6.0–8.2
Hail tolerance
moderate
Wind tolerance
moderate
Salt tolerance
moderate
Pollinator value
low

Site factors to consider

Wildlife & ecology

Pollinator value
low
Deer
Generally deer-resistant
Native ecoregion
riparian

Common problems on the Front Range

These are general tendencies for this group of plants on the Front Range, not a diagnosis. Many are stress-driven and preventable with good siting and watering. For a specific plant or an active problem, consult a certified arborist or your local CSU Extension office.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lanceleaf Poplar good for the Colorado Front Range?
Yes, Lanceleaf Poplar is a well-suited tree for Colorado's Front Range, rated "Recommended" on the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List.
How big does Lanceleaf Poplar get?
It matures to about 40–60 ft tall and 30–40 ft wide.
How much room does Lanceleaf Poplar need?
Give Lanceleaf Poplar about 40 ft of clearance from buildings, fences, and other trees so the mature canopy isn't crowded.
What shape does Lanceleaf Poplar grow into?
Lanceleaf Poplar typically grows into an upright-oval crown, taller than it is wide. This is the species' usual mature form, named cultivars (columnar, weeping, or compact selections) can differ, so check the specific cultivar.
Is Lanceleaf Poplar hardy on the Front Range?
Lanceleaf Poplar is hardy in USDA 3–8. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b–6a, so it is well within range. That said, it carries a cold-hardiness caution: The average low suits it fine; our real cold risk is the swings, late frosts, and intense winter sun, so wrap young trunks and give it shelter.
How much water does Lanceleaf Poplar need?
It needs medium water once established.
How fast does Lanceleaf Poplar grow?
Lanceleaf Poplar is a fast-growing tree. Growth rate depends on water and site conditions on the Front Range.
How long does Lanceleaf Poplar live?
Lanceleaf Poplar is relatively short-lived for a tree, so plan to replace it sooner than a long-lived shade tree. Actual lifespan varies with site, water, and care.
What color does Lanceleaf Poplar turn in fall?
Lanceleaf Poplar turns gold and yellow in autumn. Fall color intensity varies with the season and site on the Front Range.
Is Lanceleaf Poplar native to Colorado?
Yes. It is a Colorado native.
Is Lanceleaf Poplar deer-resistant?
Lanceleaf Poplar is generally considered deer-resistant, though no plant is deer-proof when browse pressure is high.
Is Lanceleaf Poplar prone to pests or disease on the Front Range?
Lanceleaf Poplar can be affected by cytospora canker and other issues common to this group on the Front Range. These are general tendencies, not a diagnosis, many are stress-driven and preventable with good siting and watering. For a specific plant or an active problem, consult a certified arborist or CSU Extension.

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See also

Related trees