Cottonwood (tree)

Cottonwood trees are fast-growing deciduous hardwoods found mainly in North America. They thrive near water sources like rivers and streams, benefiting from moist soil. Recognizable by their broad, heart-shaped or angular leaves and fluffy seed dispersal, cottonwoods play a vital role in their ecosystems by providing habitat and stabilizing soil. They can grow quite tall, often reaching 50 to 100 feet, and have thick, deeply grooved bark. Their wood is soft and lightweight, used for paper products and tapping for medicinal purposes. Cottonwoods are valued for their beauty, shade, and ecological contributions.