Scientific Name
Populus simonii
Chinese poplar is a fast-growing, relatively short-lived tree related to the cottonwoods and aspens. Two Chinese poplars previously existed on the Regis campus but died around 2017. The new trees are planted along the edge of the baseball field, and both have developed a very narrow form consistent with the ‘fastigiate’ (columnar) form. This is typical of some related trees, such as the classic ‘Lombardy’ poplar and the upright European aspen, both of which have attracted more recent horticultural interest and are often used in hedge rows and formal allée plantings.
Chinese poplar may grow to a height of 40 feet here, though the earlier two at Regis did not reach that size before they died. The species is believed to be hardy to temperatures below minus 40°F, which is far colder than what Denver typically experiences. However, Denver’s climate may actually be somewhat too warm for this species. Fortunately, the dry conditions are favorable; in more humid regions, the leaves are susceptible to mildew, leaf spot and other foliar diseases.