The velvet poplar originates from China (Asia) and probably came to Europe through contaminated yellow mustard and oil radish seed as well as animal feed. The plant, which requires warmth, now also feels at home here: larger occurrences are now found in Upper Austria, Burgenland and sporadically in Lower Austria and southeastern Styria.
The velvet poplar has no problem with longer dry periods. A single plant forms about 70-200 seed capsules, each capsule contains about 35 seeds. The seeds can survive in the soil for several decades and are carried from one area to another by harvesters or tillage equipment. Therefore, velvet poplar will most likely continue to spread.
