Simon poplar
Populus simoniifam. Salicaceae
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Pl. 36EB — Populus simonii
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IOverview
Overview
Simon poplar (Populus simonii) is a tree native to the regions of China North-Central, South-Central, Inner Mongolia, Korea, and Qinghai. This member of the Salicaceae family grows up to 30 meters in height and thrives in moist conditions with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil, preferring a pH between 7 and 7.5. Known for its edible leaves, Simon poplar is both ornamental and useful as an edible plant. Its distinctive feature includes its ability to grow in various soil types and hardiness zones 2-5, making it adaptable to different environments.
Quick answers
What is Simon poplar?
Simon poplar (Populus simonii) is a tree native to the regions of China North-Central, South-Central, Inner Mongolia, Korea, and Qinghai.
What is Simon poplar used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Simon poplar
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Simon poplar leaves have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to aid digestion. A decoction of the leaves may help alleviate digestive discomfort.
Populus species contain salicylates and flavonoids which can provide mild anti-inflammatory effects on the gastrointestinal tract, potentially aiding digestion. However, specific mechanisms for Simon poplar are not fully characterised.
- Simon poplar, like other Populus species, has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for immune support. A decoction of the leaves may help bolster the body's defenses against common ailments.
Populus species contain salicin and flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can support overall health and immune function. However, specific mechanisms for Simon poplar are not fully characterised.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Simon poplar support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Simon poplar thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 7 to 7.5. It is hardy in temperate regions from zones 2 to 5. This tree tolerates various lighting conditions but performs best with moderate sunlight. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist and provide ample space for its maximum height of 30 meters. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. Harvest edible leaves for use as desired.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
2-5
Habit
Tree
Mature size
30.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Simon poplar for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Simon poplar tree to observe its growth and care needs.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Simon poplar sapling, garden gloves, a spade or shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring when the ground is workable but not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH of 7–7.5, and loosen it to a depth of about 30 cm.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling into a prepared hole that's slightly larger than its root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, and mulch around the base.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once or twice a week during dry spells. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune branches annually to encourage healthy growth and remove any dead wood.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Simon poplar are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often added to salads for a mild flavor or steamed as a vegetable. Skip the preparation details if you prefer simplicity.
Other uses:Rooting hormoneLumberFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 18 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 18 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 5 native· 18 introduced
Europe8 regions
introduced (8)AustriaFranceGermanyHungaryNetherlandsRomaniaRussiaUkraine
Asia3 regions
native (2)ChinaSouth Korea
introduced (1)Kazakhstan
Broader regions
introduced:Primorye, Tadzhikistan, Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Salicaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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