The Jeronimus Plains Cottonwood (Populus sargentii ‘Jeronimum’) is a large-sized, fast-growing shade tree. It is known for its tall, upright, and uniform growth habit that is somewhat uncommon in the cottonwood species. As a young tree, its form is very upright and narrow but as it matures it gets slightly broader and rounder. Its foliage comes on in the spring and develops a glossy, light green green color and triangular, pointed shape. The bark on very mature trees is quite thick and rough.
\n
\nThe Jeroniums Plains Cottonwood was introduced by Ken Jeronimus of Green Acres Nursery in Colorado. This cultivar has become very popular in Colorado and other western states as a shade tree. Its fast growth rate and tall, uniform growth habit makes it great for use in a park or yard. It can do well as a specimen standing on its own or can be planted with other trees or shrubs with finer texture to balance out the landscape. It is a male selection, meaning it does not produce seed or create a mess under the canopy. It does best in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils (should be watered regularly during the hot summer months).
