Contents
Description
Populus Tremuloides, commonly known as the Quaking Aspen, is a deciduous tree native to North America. It belongs to the willow family and is known for its unique trembling leaves that rustle in the slightest breeze. It can grow up to 20-25 meters tall and has a narrow trunk with bark that is smooth and greenish-white when young, turning to grayish-white with black scars as it ages. It is a fast-growing tree that is often used for reforestation and erosion control.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Populus |
Appearance
The Quaking Aspen has a slender trunk with a crown that is narrow and conical in shape. Its leaves are round, about 4-8cm in diameter, and have a glossy green color on top with a pale green underside. The leaves are attached to the stem by long, flattened petioles that allow them to tremble in the slightest breeze, hence the name “Quaking Aspen”. The tree produces small flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, round fruits that contain numerous small seeds. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant yellow color, making it a popular ornamental tree.
Care Guide
To care for a Quaking Aspen tree, it is important to provide it with adequate water and fertilization. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sunlight, although it can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 1-7 and can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F. Pruning is not necessary, but can be done to remove dead or damaged branches. It is important to keep an eye out for pests and diseases, as they can quickly spread and cause harm to the tree.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Quaking Aspen is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including leaf miners, aphids, scale insects, and rust diseases. Leaf miners can cause damage to the leaves by feeding on the tissue, while aphids and scale insects can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Rust diseases can cause yellow or orange spots on the leaves, which eventually turn black and fall off. It is important to monitor the tree for signs of damage and treat any infestations promptly.
Habitat
The Quaking Aspen is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and mountain slopes. It is often found in areas with moist soil and full sunlight. It is an important species for wildlife, as it provides habitat and food for a variety of animals, including elk, deer, and beavers.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the lifespan of a Quaking Aspen tree?
A: Quaking Aspen trees can live up to 150 years.
Q: Can Quaking Aspen trees be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Quaking Aspen trees can be grown from seed, but they can also be propagated from cuttings.
Q: How fast do Quaking Aspen trees grow?
A: Quaking Aspen trees are fast-growing and can grow up to 2-3 feet per year.
Q: Are Quaking Aspen trees drought-tolerant?
A: While Quaking Aspen trees prefer moist soil, they can tolerate some drought once established.
Related Plants
- Populus Grandidentata
- Populus Balsamifera
- Populus Nigra
- Populus Trichocarpa
References
- “Populus Tremuloides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277612&isprofile=0&=&title=Populus+tremuloides>.
- “Populus Tremuloides.” USDA Forest Service. Accessed 14 June 2021. <https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/poptre/all.html#POPLOT0>.
- “Quaking Aspen.” Arbor Day Foundation. Accessed 14 June 2021. <https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=839>.
