Populus balsamifera (Fr: peuplier baumier | En: balsam poplar)

Balsalm popular is one of a small handful of balsalm producing trees. Balsalm refers to the resins that are strongly aromatic and have been reputed to be of medical value, the name balsalm has also been applied most famously to balsalm fir, but also balsalm willow and Red spruce which has been referred to as he-balsalm. The balsalm popular stores its aromatic balsalm in its buds which are quite fragrant. Reportedly bees will gather this balsalm to use as a disinfectant for their hives.

I usually encounter this tree in dry rocky areas, but it can live in floodplains as well. It is often one of the first trees to come up after an area has been destroyed, as such I've often found it in old industrial sites growing out of cracks in concrete. This tolerance can allows it to thrive in urban settings where trees like sugar maples would struggle.

Unlike trembling aspen, it does not seem to spread as readily through roots, though will produce the occasional shoot.

Height: 20–25 meters

Habitat: Flood plains, dry open habitats

Sun requirements: Full sun

Moisture requirements: dry to moist

Soil requirements: various