Italian poplar is sometimes referred to as black poplar and is not related to the American poplar-a totally different family. It is also known as Balm of Gilead, German Pappel, French Peuplier, Dutch Populier, Populus nigra. The average height of black poplar is 100 to 115 feet with diameters of 3 to 4 feet. It is actually part of the willow family. The Italian black poplar is either male or female. The heartwood and sapwood are not clearly defined as in some woods, and poplar’s sapwood is a large part of the tree.

The Italian poplar is a very fast growing tree, with soft light colored wood, and was used as firewood during the middle ages. During the 13th and 14th centuries it was used as a carving wood by German woodcarvers. In addition it was used for shoes and was a very popular woodturning wood. Some Italian harpsichords were made using Italian poplar.

It was also used for medicinal purposes. The resin that came from the buds and stalks was aromatic and used to heal wounds, and sores. It can have toxic effects in some people, especially if taken internally. It is also a good bioindicator of heavy metal pollution in Europe.

The wood is used today for match splints and wood wool, also known as excelsior, and for chip baskets. Italian black poplar is also used for for the bottoms of trucks and wagons and for furniture framing and interior joinery.

Italian poplar is a very desirable wood for woodburning. The light color, close grain, and ease of burning makes for some detailed woodburnings, not unlike basswood.