Course: Identifying Poplars

Learn about the different species of trees belonging to the genus Populus that are found in the UK.

Poplars are a distinctive group of fast-growing trees in the genus Populus, found throughout the UK and Ireland in woodlands, floodplains, parks and roadside plantings. Alongside the two native species, several introduced species, hybrids and cultivars are widespread, making accurate identification both rewarding and challenging.

In this webinar, Russell Miller will provide an overview of the diversity and identification of both native and alien species of poplar in the UK and Ireland.

The following species, hybrids, and cultivars will be covered:

• Aspen (Populus tremula)
• Black Poplar (Populus nigra subsp. betulifolia)
• White Poplar (Populus alba)
• Grey Poplar (Populus × canescens)
• Hybrid Black Poplar (Populus × canadensis)
• Lombardy Poplar (Populus nigra 'Italica')

Whether you’re a botanist, conservation practitioner, student or arborist, this session will provide you with the skills to start identifying the UK and Ireland’s poplars. You'll also gain insights into the poplars' ancestry and history of cultivation, the widespread versus rare species, and the sites where native poplar diversity thrives.

The 90-minute event will consist of a 1-hour presentation followed by a Q&A with the tutor using questions provided by the live audience.

The presentations will be recorded and shared with those who booked alongside Q&A transcripts and relevant links following the event via a password-protected website.