Quaking Aspen
Populus tremuloides
Also listed as Populus aurea, Populus cercidiphylla
Also known as Trembling Aspen, Aspen Poplar, American Aspen
Climate Match for your location
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A fast-growing deciduous tree known for its small, flattened petioles that cause leaves to quiver in the slightest breeze. It displays brilliant yellow to orange fall foliage and is excellent for wildlife habitat.
Why grow it
Quaking aspen establishes quickly in marginal soils and disturbed sites where many other trees struggle, making it useful for erosion control and pioneer planting in restoration work. Its rapid growth and prolific sprouting from roots provide fast screening and wildlife shelter compared to slower-growing alternatives. The distinctive leaf movement and reliable fall color offer aesthetic interest with minimal maintenance once established, though it lacks the longevity of many hardwoods in stable landscapes.
Watch out for
Aspen's shallow, aggressive root system can interfere with nearby plantings and infrastructure, so site it away from buildings and pipes. The tree's tendency to sucker prolifically can become burdensome in small spaces or manicured gardens without regular removal. Wood is soft and brittle, making mature trees prone to storm damage and requiring attention in high-wind or heavy-snow regions.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
North American native
Native to: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A fast-growing deciduous tree known for its small, flattened petioles that cause leaves to quiver in the slightest breeze. It displays brilliant yellow to orange fall foliage and is excellent for wildlife habitat.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Quaking Aspen grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Quaking aspen establishes quickly in marginal soils and disturbed sites where many other trees struggle, making it useful for erosion control and pioneer planting in restoration work. Its rapid growth and prolific sprouting from roots provide fast screening and wildlife shelter compared to slower-growing alternatives. The distinctive leaf movement and reliable fall color offer aesthetic interest with minimal maintenance once established, though it lacks the longevity of many hardwoods in stable landscapes.
Watch out for
Aspen's shallow, aggressive root system can interfere with nearby plantings and infrastructure, so site it away from buildings and pipes. The tree's tendency to sucker prolifically can become burdensome in small spaces or manicured gardens without regular removal. Wood is soft and brittle, making mature trees prone to storm damage and requiring attention in high-wind or heavy-snow regions.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
North American native
Native to: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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