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Aspen

A beautiful and delicate tree which spreads by suckers off the root system, so creating entire groves of aspen. The latin name 'tremula' means to 'tremble' and refers to the way the leaves flutter and move in the slightest breeze.

What other names does it have?

Can also be known as
  • Aespe (Anglo-saxon)
  • Eadha (Old Irish)
  • Crithionn (Gaelic)
  • Aps (South England)
  • Asp
  • Pipple (South west England)
  • Quakin' ash (Scotland)
  • European aspen
  • Quaking aspen
Generic namePoplar
Latin namePopulus tremula
Family nameWillow
Latin family nameSaliceceae

What type of tree is it?

Is it a broadleaf or conifer?It is a broadleaf
Does it lose its leaves in autumn?Yes, it is deciduous

Species description:

Average height15-25m

Leaf

DescriptionThe leaves are round with large curvy teeth. When they first open they are hairy, but they soon lose this. The leaves flutter in the slightest breeze . Young trees have more oval leaves with a pointed tip.
ShapeOdd
SizeUp to 7cm across
ColourGreen
Leaf budThe buds are long, pointed and sharp
Leaf stalkLong stalk
Leaf arrangementAlternate

Flower, seed, and fruit

Type of flowerCatkin
Flower sizeAround 4cm long
Flowering seasonLate winter
Fruit colourWhite and fluffy
Fruit seasonSpring
Type of seed bodyCatkin
Seeds dispersed by
  • Wind

Bark and twig

Bark descriptionCreamy yellow pitted with bands of black diamonds
Twig DescriptionSlender and shiny dark brown

Where is it usually found?

Is it native or non-native to the British Isles?Native
Where is its natural range?Britain and Ireland
Preferred soil type or environmental conditions?In the lowlands they prefer clay and wet areas in ancient woods or heaths. In the uplands they are more diverse growing beside rocky gorges and stream valleys
What is its British conservation status?Occasional

Additional information

Human uses of tree and timberAspen does not have many uses. However its light weight wood has been used for veneers, plywood, matches and fruit crates. In America it is used for paper-making.
Tree lore and folkloreMost of the folklore around aspen is negative and refers to the way the leaves flutter or tremble in the wind. One writer says that in Wales they believe the leaves constantly fluttered because it was a cursed tree- and cursed because it was the wood on which Christ was crucified. Some writers believe these negative associations may be why aspen wood was used so little.

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Light branching

Big curved teeth

Very sharp buds

Aspen flowers

Illustrations supplied by
Collins

Collins Tree Guide