Lombardy poplar 100/120cm (2L)

The Lombardy poplar is one of the most instantly recognisable trees in cultivation, with its distinctive narrow, columnar form that cuts a dramatic silhouette against the skyline. This 100/120cm specimen of Populus nigra ‘Italica’ arrives in a 2-litre pot, ready to establish quickly in your garden and begin its impressive vertical growth. The slender, upright habit makes it perfect for creating striking avenues, natural screens, or architectural focal points without consuming precious horizontal space.

Native to Italy and widely planted across Europe for centuries, the Lombardy poplar has become synonymous with Mediterranean and continental gardens. Its tightly packed, ascending branches create a flame-like outline that adds vertical drama and structure to any planting scheme. The foliage emerges bright green in spring, deepening to a rich, glossy mid-green through summer before turning golden-yellow in autumn, providing seasonal interest throughout the year.

This fast-growing deciduous tree excels in British conditions, thriving in full sun and tolerating a wide range of soil types. Whether planted in clay, loam, or sandy soils, the Lombardy poplar adapts readily, though it performs best in moist, well-drained conditions. Its vigorous growth rate means you’ll see substantial height gain each year, making it an excellent choice when you need quick screening or shelter. The root system is extensive and moisture-seeking, so position carefully away from buildings, drains, and underground services.

Lombardy poplars are particularly valuable for creating windbreaks in exposed gardens or providing privacy along boundaries where width is limited. Their narrow spread of just a few metres makes them suitable for situations where broader trees would be impractical. Plant them in groups of three or more at 3-4 metre intervals for an effective screen, or use them as sentinel specimens to frame views or mark entrances.

The rustling foliage creates a gentle, soothing sound in the breeze, adding an auditory dimension to your garden. The bark is grey-brown and develops attractive fissures with age, providing winter interest when the leaves have fallen. While the tree produces catkins in spring, the ‘Italica’ cultivar is predominantly male, so you won’t have issues with the fluffy seed dispersal common to some poplars.

Care is straightforward in British gardens. Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a strong root system, particularly during dry spells. Once established, the tree is remarkably drought-tolerant, though it appreciates consistent moisture. Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support vigorous growth. Pruning is rarely necessary beyond removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter. The tree naturally maintains its columnar shape without intervention.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.