Cottonwood (Populus canescens)

 

Family - Salicaceae

 

Distribution - Europe , grown in South Africa

 

Other names: Grey Poplar, Gray poplar, Matchwood Poplar, Vallpopulier.

 

Characteristics: Pale yellow - white to light brown in colour, with no clear distinction between sapwood and heartwood. Usually straight grained it is woolly to the touch and light in weight, weighing 450 - 480 Kg/M3 when dried.

 

Working Qualities: Tends to bind on the saw, and produces a woolly surface. Can be glued satisfactorily, and takes polish and varnish reasonably well.

 

Uses: It is used in furniture for framing and drawers, for interior joinery, boxes and crates, and toys.