Key to Poplars and Willows
in New Zealand

'Hororata'

• 0. Poplar or Willow?
• Looks like a poplar -> Poplar - 1. Crown shape
• Narrow crown (or uncertain) -> 2. Bark
• Bark is smooth -> 5. Leaves
• Leaves more rounded with a wavy leaf edge, dark green upper surface, greyish green under-surface, bark light coloured and tending to rough -> 'Hororata'

Populus maximowiczii × P. nigra NZ 5033

‘Hororata’ was bred in New Zealand in 1993 and released for commercial use in 2011. It is female.

Identification

‘Hororata’ leaves are morerounded, dark green on the upper surface and greyish green below.

The leaf edge is wavy and slightly toothed. ‘Hororata’ has a narrow crown, apical dominance, and light branching. Angle of lower branches is greater than other maxi-nigra clones. Wood density is low at 287 kg/m3.

Bark roughens up early. ‘Hororata’ may produce double leaders.

Typical uses, site requirements, pest and disease resistance

‘Hororata’ is very hardy, and performs well in moist environments except for coastal sites. It is rust resistant.

Height and DBH at age 7 (age 12) in a sheltered site was 9.4 (17.4) m and 12.5 (17.4) cm and in a windy site was 6.5 (10.2) m and 10.8 (14.2) cm.

Suitable for soil conservation. Ideal in shelteredsites where a slow growing tree is required.