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The Black Poplar, (Populus nigra, subspecies betulifolia) nicknamed the 'Funeral Tree' because of its black appearance, is one of Britain's most endangered native trees. Just two existed in the Rother Valley before until recently and only about 3,000 nationwide.
The tree has vast, straight, usually leaning trunks and heavy branches that arch and sweep down - often to the ground. The bark is deeply ridged and appears black from a distance. The lightweight, springy, heat and fire resistant timber was used for building and as floorboards, brake blocks and clogs. Wood from pollarded trees was used for thatching, as bean sticks and in woven baskets.

The tree, once considered sacred, had many other uses. The buds, bark and leaves, rich in an aspirin-related substance called salicin, were used in preparations for coughs, rheumatism and inflammation. Buds were also used in salves for burns and boils and in liniments for rheumatic pains.
Taken internally, Black Poplar gave relief from pain and heart trouble. Bruised leaves mixed with vinegar were applied to gout and seeds mixed with vinegar were drunk to cure falling sickness. The young buds were even used as a hair conditioner.