Eastern Cottonwood

Honeybees visit eastern cottonwood catkins for abundant early-spring pollen essential for brood rearing and modest nectar yields that support foraging but rarely produce surplus honey. Peak bloom aligns with March to April, offering critical resources post-winter dormancy. Resin from buds is harvested for propolis; female trees shed cottony seeds creating mess, while both sexes benefit bees, though the species can be short-lived and prone to breakage in storms.