Buds are often divergent from the twig. Twigs and buds are gray and hairy. Twigs finally become reddish or orange-brown in color when mature. Silver poplar is longer lived than some of the other poplars. Like many other members of the genus, it is undesirable for ornamental purposes because the roots often clog older underground tile and drains.
Plastic pipe is resistant to damage.
Bark is gray to light green or white with black, diamond-shaped scars on old trunks. The bark and foliage color give the tree its common name. Young twigs and buds are often white and woolly as well. Foliage color is dark green above with thick, white or silver hairs covering the lower surface. The Carolina poplar has a widespreading habit and is not narrow or upright.