Balsam Poplar is a tree of northern riparian zones and boreal forests whose sticky, fragrant buds produce a powerfully sweet, balsamic scent in spring. It is a fast-growing pioneer on riverbanks and floodplains, providing early structure in successional habitats. Its catkins are eaten by ruffed grouse, moose browse the twigs, and numerous cavity-nesters use it.
Habitat
Floodplains, river terraces, and boreal forest margins across northern North America
Diet
Catkins eaten by grouse; twigs browsed by moose and beaver
How common
Common
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