Cottonwood Tree
Native Range Map
This tree is a majestic fast-growing tree with bark similar to Redwood. It is known for the soft restful sounds the leaves make when the wind blows through the top of the tree. The name originates from the white fluffy cotton-like material that covers and encloses the seeds. Cottonwood trees need lots of water and only found in the wetter area of the park in the bottomland forest. It can grow as much as four feet each year. This tree is in the same Poplar family and is related to Aspen trees. It is a prolific seed producer. A single tree can produce 48 million seeds during its lifetime.
Unfortunately, this tree is prone to disease and insects and is very susceptible to drought. The wood is soft and the typical lifespan for Cottonwood trees is only 50-70 years.
The Spanish word for cottonwood is Alamo. The scientific name is Populus deltoides.
Official state tree for 3 states (Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming)