Lowland species mainly along streams, rivers, ponds, and swamp; also in abandoned fields on alluvial soils. Common in the coastal Plain and Piedmont; infrequent in the mountains
Host plant for Mourning Cloak and Dreamy Duskywing butterflies and Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. Young twigs, buds, and foliage browsed by white-tailed deer. Seeds consumed by grouse, turkey, small birds and rodents. Birds and squirrels eat the male catkins in late winter/early spring. Plant NOVA Natives lists this species as particularly popular with the non-native honeybee
High Value Generalist
Earth Sangha lists this plant as a "High Value Generalist" because it is easy to grow, occurs across a wide range of habitats and is known to be of high value to wildlife
May grow with multiple trunk (though crowding from that may shorten their lives), beautiful peeling bark. Roots are invasive - do not plant within 20’' of hardscape - and shallow roots - try to plant shrubs at the same time so they grow up together. Great to suck up water and reduce flooding.
My Native Garden
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