Definition

Noun: 1. A species of poplar tree native to western North America: A large, fast-growing deciduous tree (Populus trichocarpa) characterized by its dark green, shiny leaves that are often silvery or rusty-colored on the underside, and its brownish bark and wood.

Usage and Examples

• As a subject: " is one of the tallest broadleaf trees in North America."
• As an object: "Ecologists are studying for its rapid growth and potential use in biofuel production."
• With modifiers: "We rested in the shade of a massive, ancient ."

Advanced Usage

• In botanical or ecological contexts: The term is used precisely to refer to this specific species, distinguishing it from other cottonwoods like the Eastern cottonwood ().
  • Example: "The riparian zone is dominated by black cottonwood and red alder."

Variants and Related Words

• Western balsam-poplar: Another common name for the same tree species ().
• Cottonwood (general): A common name for various trees in the genus , which produce seeds with cotton-like fibers. is a specific type of cottonwood.

Synonyms

• Western balsam-poplar
• (scientific name)

Notes on Meaning

• The name "black" likely refers to the dark color of the furrowed bark on mature trees, not the leaves.
• It is not typically used in idiomatic expressions or phrasal verbs, as it is a specific botanical term.

Noun

1. cottonwood of western North America with dark green leaves shining above and rusty or silvery beneath
2. North American poplar with large rounded scalloped leaves and brownish bark and wood