American chestnut
white poplar
Chestnut vs. Poplar Trees Chestnut (Chestnut) trees have long, lance-shaped leaves with prominent parallel veins and sharp, coarse teeth along the edges. They produce spiny burrs containing edible nuts, and mature trees often develop thick, deeply furrowed bark. Chestnuts are typically found in well-drained forests and upland sites. Poplar (Poplar) trees are fast-growing trees with leaves that vary from triangular to round depending on the species. Many poplars have flattened leaf stems that cause the leaves to tremble or flutter in the slightest breeze. They produce cottony seeds and are commonly found along rivers, wetlands, and other moist habitats. Quick field tip: If the leaves are long with sharp teeth and you find spiny nut burrs, it's a chestnut. If the leaves flutter noticeably in the wind and the tree produces cottony seeds, it's a poplar