Cottonwood is not a great choice for firewood.
Cottonwood is good for generating heat easily but will burn through very quickly. It is not a good wood to load up on for an overnight burn.
Cottonwood can put out an unpleasant smell, particularly if burnt before properly seasoned.
Cottonwood has a low MBTU output, make it a poor choice for high heat, and long burn times.
Common Name: Cottonwood
Scientific Name: Populus trichocarpa.
Identification: Cottonwood is part of the Poplar species or tree. Cottonwood are tall trees up to 100 foot high, with distinctive triangular shapes leaves, bordering on heart shaped.
Location: Central to Eastern USA, through Hardiness zone 2 to 9.
Hard / Soft: Hard
Average Dry Weight / Cord: 2040 lbs (Lowest 25%).
Average Green Weight / Cord: 4640 lbs.
Comparative Seasoning / Drying Time: less than 6 months
Average MBTU / Pound: 13.
MBTU / Pound Percentile: Bottom 25%.
This is a comparison measure of MBTU compared to common fire wood varieties as per this best firewood to burn chart.
Cut-ability: Moderate.
Split-ability: Easy (once dry).
Smoke: Low smoke.
Sparks: Moderate sparks.
Scent: Unpleasant (more so when green).