Common Name: Quaking Aspen
Specific Name: Polulus tremuloides
Known Occurrence at Taylor Point:
Map Areas: Beach 1E, Woodland 3B
Category: Native, Tree
Ecological Considerations: Populus tremuloides, commonly called Quaking Aspen, a member of the Willow family, is perhaps most noted for its beautiful white bark, its deep green foliage that quakes in the slightest breeze and its golden yellow fall foliage color. It is a medium sized deciduous tree that typically grows 20-50’ tall with a narrow, rounded crown. Ovate-triangular to nearly round, dark glossy green leaves (to 3” long) are finely toothed. Aspens are dioecious, with male and female flowers appearing in separate catkins on separate clones in spring before the foliage. Catkins are gray-green and not showy. Small drooping fruiting clusters follow the female flowers in late May. Bark of young trees is smooth and greenish white. As the tree matures, bark becomes more chalky white with black warty patching.
Map areas where this plant can be used for revegetation:
It has been recommended that this plant be encourged to spread in it’s current location.
Propagation Mechanisms/Strategies for Encouraging its Establishment:
Quaking aspen is best grown in rich, humusy, consistently moist, well-drained soils in full sun.
Quaking aspen occurs in a wide variety of habitats (including soil type and moisture conditions) and at a great range of elevation. It characteristically forms pure stands. It is a shade-intolerant, disturbed site species and is quickly replaced in succession by more tolerant species.
Reproduction of quaking aspen is primarily by root sprouts, and extensive clones of root-interconnected trees are characteristic of the species. Most root sprouts develop within 30 ft of the parent stem, although some are produced at 60 ft or more. They develop from roots within 1-4 inches of the surface.
Best Planting Practices/Options and Pros and Cons of Options:
The quaking aspen grows well in acidic, loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained and clay soils. It prefers abundant moisture.
Key Issues Regarding its Ecology ( e.g. Which Invasives Threaten it, What Conditions Favor it)
Associated Ecological Benefits:
A wide variety of moths and beetles depend on this species for food.
Availability of Locally Sourced Seeds and Plants:
Case Studies of Native Plant Establishment Efforts/Lessons Learned:
Additional Photos:
Sources cited:
USDA
USA National Phenology Network
Key Words:
Native
Tree
Polulus tremuloides
Quaking Aspen
Catkins
dioecious
Potter Cove Beach
Black Cherry Woodland
1E, 3B