This European introduction is seen very often at the seaside where it seems to like the sandy soils. When not in flower the leaves have a dense white tomentose (very short hairs) layer giving them a whitish appearance. The catkins shown here are female and most of the trees you find in the British Isles are female.

Populus alba is found throughout England and Wales apart from the very high ground. There is less in Scotland where it avoids the mountains. It is dotted here and there throughout Ireland.

LHS: Great Orme 6th July 2007 RHS: Leasowe Dunes 28th April 2006

Added on 2nd May 2006, updated 19th July 2011