Populus fremontii Fremont Cottonwood
DECIDUOUS TREE. Triangular leaves with rounded teeth and elongate
points. Leaves have long petioles (stems) so they move easily in the slightest
wind. Young bark is smooth grayish-green. An essential component
of riparian ecosystems, it shades the ground and water, slows flooding,
cools the air, provides food for several insect species, and offers cover
and nest sites for birds. Found in the Empires on Davidson Canyon
and its larger tributaries. Cottonwoods in the Empires are not very
large; the one in the photo is typical.
FAMILY: Salicaceae (Willow Family)