

White Poplar

Latin Name:
Populus tremuloides


Soft wooded, deciduous tree with flowers shaped like catkins. Leaves are generally broad and undivided. Small seed capsules with seeds surrounded by white cottony hair. Height: 90 feet or more.

Common Uses

The stem bark contains salicylates, which act as pain relievers and ease swelling. Because of this, white poplar bark is often used to treat arthritis and rheumatism. It can also stimulate digestion and is used to treat diarrhea. Externally, the bark is used to treat hemorrhoids, infected wounds, and sprains. The leaves, root, bark, and leaf buds may all be used.


Poplar buds have been used in tinctures, ointments, infusions and teas to help with chest complaints, kidney problems, gonorrhea, arthritis, and rheumatism. Native Americans used it for dropsy, sore eyes, and toothaches.

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