Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera)
The Balsam Poplar is one of Canada’s hardiest trees and its range goes to coast to coast and ranges North into the boreal zone. The buds of the tree produce a sticky, fragrant resin which is known to have a variety of medicinal properties. The ointment made from the Balsam Poplar winter buds is called “Balm of Gilead” and can be used to relieve chest congestion, treat skin problems and reduce muscle pains. Honey bees also use the antibacterial properties of resin to self-medicate their colonies. They coat their hives with the resin which helps protect their colony from fungal and bacterial infections. The resin is also highly flammable making the twigs great for starting fires.
The sticky terminal buds are large reaching up to 25 mm and have hairless margins. Photo: Chris Earley.
The bark appears greenish-brown when young and turns gray as it ages. The squiggly markings on the bark are from feeding snails. Photo: Sean Fox
Leaves of the Balsam Poplar are ovate, pointed and shiny with a notably long (7-10 cm) stalk. Photo: Chris Earley
Ontario Tree Atlas map of non-planted Balsam Poplar. 1995-1999.