Populus nigra, Black poplar

Black poplar is a species of cottonwood poplars - deciduous trees, very fast growing, with male and female catkins on separate trees. 

It can grow up to 20 meters, and rarely reaches 40 meters high. It also prefers rich and well-drained soil and dislike shade. 

The tree that I found is Lombardy Black poplar, Populus nigra 'Italica', and grows again in Longford Park in a group with other Black poplars forms the boundary of a former golf playground. The soil there is wet but well-drained and a young Common elder is growing right next to its trunk.

'Italica' species have very narrowed crown. They were originally selected in Lombardy region in Italy. The trees are all male, bearing red catkins. 

Black poplar has invasive root system, which can damage the building's underground drain system. It should not be planted close to buildings because it damages their foundations by drying out the soil.

Bark is grey - brown in colour, thick and very furrowed.

Leaves are green, with diamond-shaped 5 - 8 cm long and 6 - 8 cm broad