Populus candicans Ait. [Populus balsamifera candicans (Ait.) Gray]
HABIT.—A tree 50-70 feet high, with a trunk diameter of 1-3 feet; more spreading branches than in P. balsamifera, forming a broader and more open crown.
LEAVES.—Resemble those of P. balsamifera, but more broadly heart-shaped and more coarsely serrate; more or less pubescent when young; petioles pubescent.
FLOWERS.—Similar to those of P. balsamifera.
FRUIT.—Similar to that of P. balsamifera.
WINTER-BUDS.—Terminal bud about 1 inch long, ovoid, long-pointed, dark red-brown, resinous throughout, viscid, very aromatic.
BARK.—Twigs reddish or olive-green, with occasional longitudinal gray lines, covered with a fragrant, gummy secretion, becoming gray-green; dark gray, rough, irregularly striate and firm on old trunks.
WOOD.—Resembles that of P. balsamifera, but is somewhat heavier.
DISTRIBUTION.—Indigenous to the northern portions of the state, but often cultivated and occasionally escaping in the southern portion.
HABITAT.—In a great variety of soils and situations.