Quaking Aspen
Plant Type: Dormant, bare-root
Zones: 2-7
Soil Type: Clay, Loamy & Sandy Soils
Site Selection: Full Sun
Mature Height & Width: 40-50' Height and 20-25' Spread
Growth Rate: Moderate/Fast - 12-24" or more per year on average
Moisture Requirements: Average soils
Quaking Aspen
Populus tremuloides
The Quaking Aspen has a beautiful light colored bark with glossy green leaves in summer. The leaves shimmer and "quake" in the breeze displaying a spectacular show and a great fluttering sound. Quaking Aspen leaves turn bright yellow in fall before falling and leaving its bark on display as winter interest. This hardwood tree is common in the Rocky Mountains, through the upper Midwest and all of the Northeastern United States. The tree is very cold tolerant and will grow in zones 2 to 7.
The Quaking Aspen makes a great tree by itself in the landscape or planted in masses. Place this tree around your patio or hammock and enjoy the sights and sounds of this beautiful hardwood. This tree is not terribly shade tolerant and prefers full sun. The Quaking Aspen is commonly used as a screen for slower growing trees.
Common uses for the Quaking Aspen include:
- Ornamental, beautiful bark, trembling leaves
- Fast growing tree
- Fall color
- Excellent wildlife value
- Silver bark provides winter interest
The leaves of the Aspen are eaten by deer, elk and snowshoe hare. When the leaves fall in autumn, it's a favorite of deer into early winter. Beavers use this tree for food and building material and grouse are drawn to the buds as a source of food in the winter.
