Naming
The genus name ''Populus'' is from the Latin for poplar, and the specific epithet ''balsamifera'' from Latin for "balsam-bearing".
Habitat
''Populus balsamifera'' is the northernmost North American hardwood, growing transcontinentally on boreal and montane upland and flood plain sites, and attaining its best development on flood plains. It is a hardy, fast-growing tree which is generally short lived, but some trees as old as 200 years have been found.The tree is known for its strong, sweet fragrance, which emanates from its sticky, resinous buds. The smell has been compared to that of the balsam fir tree.
Uses
The light, soft wood of ''Populus balsamifera'' is used for pulp and construction. The resinous sap , comes from its buds, and is sometimes used as a hive disinfectant by bees.Many kinds of animals use the twigs of ''Populus balsamifera'' for food. The leaves of the tree serve as food for caterpillars of various Lepidoptera. See List of Lepidoptera that feed on poplars.
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