Cottonwood Leaves - For Mulch?

Seems where we live Cottonwood leaves wind up in our yard.
If we shred them and put them on tender plants will that be a good mulch?

I am aware that certain leaves are not the right kind.

What about Cottonwood?

http://www.irisherbal.com/psg/content/mulching.html , http://www.ext.nodak.edu/extnews/hortiscope/tree/cttnwood.htm

Thank you, MaVie!
Very helpful!

u're very welcome Arlene, my pleasure :)!