Live Fast and Die Young, the story of the Black Cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa)

In this video blog, we delve into the wonders of the Black Cottonwood tree, one of the most successful riparian trees in Western North America. With fall winds bringing down the highly medicinal buds of this tree for easy collection, this is the perfect time to learn a bit more about the ecology of this tree. In addition to identification tips and fun facts about cottonwoods, Environmental Interpreter Theodore Hoss dives into how this tree has evolved to live through frequent flooding, and how it can provide valuable services to humans by acting like a sponge and building up streamside ecosystems to slow floods.

To learn more like this, check out our Ethnobotany Immersion Course for 2026! Theo will be one of this years instructors, and will be helping show off the many trees of our region and their many edible, medicinal, and practical qualities. Registration is open now!