Cottonwood Vs. Basswood
Basswood and cottonwood trees are very similar and wood from these two species is even used in the same applications. But aside from size (mature cottonwoods are 25 feet taller and twice the diameter of basswood) there are a few other subtle differences.
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Habitat
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Both trees favor moist soil, with cottonwood trees often found along the banks of waterways and basswood in floodplains and wetlands.
Bark
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On mature trees, the bark of cottonwoods is thicker and more deeply fissured. Basswood bark is slightly more brownish and the bark on young basswood trees is smooth.
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Leaves
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Both trees produce heart-shaped leaves, with the cottonwood's a bit larger and more symmetrical. Basswood leaves are unequal at the base and are shiny on the underside rather than on the upper side as on most trees.
Flowers and Fruit
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Basswood blooms in creamy flowers in May and June and has a fragrance favored by bees which produce a well sought-after honey. A fruit resembling clusters of peas follows. Cottonwoods are noted for their fluffy, cotton-like tails in summer.
Wood
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Both woods are similar in color and are softer hardwoods. Both woods are used in boxes and food containers because they impart no flavor and no odor. Basswood does have a tighter grain.
Carving
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Both woods are used by carvers . Basswood is better at maintaining details while cottonwood tends to produce fuzzing or thin, hairlike wood fibers when worked, especially with dull tools.
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