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Omaha tree guide

Eastern cottonwood

Populus deltoides

Eastern cottonwood is Nebraska's state tree and occurs abundantly along streams, rivers, and other wet areas.

Sources checked: 2026-08-02Next source review: 2027-02-02Independent professional review: not completed

What this page can tell you

How to recognize this kind of tree

This profile is eastern cottonwood, Populus deltoides.

These species-level facts cannot diagnose the condition of one particular tree, prove that work is needed, or determine whether it is hazardous.

What to look for

  • Broad triangular leaves and cottony seed release in late spring are useful seasonal comparison features.
  • Nebraska Forest Service lists a typical mature height of 70–100 feet and spread of 60–90 feet.

What changes by season

Use whatever features are available now. Missing leaves, flowers, fruit, or pods often just means the timing is wrong—not that the tree cannot be a match.

When leaves are on

Compare alternate leaves or buds staggered along the twig, one leaf blade per stem, and broad triangular leaves. Use more than one feature and do not force a match from leaf shape alone.

When leaves are off or hard to see

Compare deep furrows, a broad spreading tree, and an open or irregular tree. Bark and overall shape can help narrow it down, but neither confirms the species by itself.

When fruit or seeds are present

cottony seed release can provide another useful clue. Not seeing them may simply reflect season, age, sex, or variety.

Typical mature size

Nebraska Forest Service lists a typical mature height of 70–100 feet and spread of 60–90 feet.

Similar Omaha trees

These are the closest lookalikes among the 10 common local trees in this guide. Other species can still look similar.

Bur oak

Quercus macrocarpa

These trees can look similar in how the leaves or buds attach, whether the leaf is simple or compound, and bark. Check leaf shape and fruit or seeds next instead of relying on the name or one photograph.

View that tree profile

American elm (species only)

Ulmus americana

These trees can look similar in how the leaves or buds attach, whether the leaf is simple or compound, and bark. Check leaf shape, fruit or seeds, and overall tree shape next instead of relying on the name or one photograph.

View that tree profile

What to consider for an individual tree

For any large tree, inspect observable broken or hanging branches and consider people or property within reach; the profile does not infer an individual-tree hazard.

Its mature size and the specific site should be considered during on-site planning.

Sources