Thursday, January 20, 2011

Populus balsamifera and Catalpa speciosa

After giving it some thought, I've chosen one of the balsam poplars in the park next door, to observe for the year. I walk by it everyday, making it really easy to notice and track it through the seasons.

It's one of three poplars in the park and I'm looking forward to getting to know this one better.

It's already starting to develop buds! They'll be ready to harvest soon, though I doubt I'll be able to reach any on this tree, unless the wind blows off a branch or two.

While in the park I remembered the lovely catalpa tree growing across from the poplars and on a whim, I've decided to study it too!

I love catalpa trees. They are so exotic looking with their tropical looking leaves and orchid-like flowers. I only just learned recently that catalpas have medicinal uses too, which I'm excited to discover more about.

Stay tuned for more updates from the Tree Year!

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

that sounds like two really interesting trees! Welcome to the Tree Year Project.

Amber said...

I'm really looking forward to this project. Such a great idea. Thanks for creating it!

J.Garlough said...

Great verdict! Smart choice to study two trees so close to home, and great choice of species.

Careful with the balsam poplars though, they are quite sly. On winter walks, stands of young ones perched on the horizon will lure you off your intended path with their light covered bark... they'll pretend to be birch full of Chaga [wikipedia]....

Amber said...

Sly indeed J! Hmmm....birches would be a good choice for the Tree Year too. Yellow birch especially with its yummy wintergreen-ness.

Urban Girl said...

Such a great project! Can't wait to see updates.