Trembling Aspen - Populus tremuloides
Trembling Aspens are fast-growing medium-sized trees. They are known for their ability to grow in poor, burnt, and recently disturbed soil, making them an important forest succession tree. Initially, Trembling Aspens tend to grow in pure stands. Over time conifers and broadleaf tree species move in and overtake them. When mature, seed catkins split open revealing seeds with tufts of silky white strands. Trembling Aspens can also reproduce vegetatively, creating clones of themselves.
Photo by Sean Fox.
This tree's namesake comes from the long, flattened stalks at the base of their leaves, which allow the leaves to flutter or "tremble" in the slightest of wind. Leaves are broadly oval-shaped with a fine-toothed margin and a short, sharp tip.
Photo by Sean Fox.
Young Trembling Aspens have smooth, pale bark that darkens and furrows with age.
Photos by Chris Earley and Sean Fox
Buds are 5-7mm long with a shiny reddish-brown appearance.
Photo by Sean Fox.
Ontario Tree Atlas map of non-planted Trembling Aspen. 1995-1999.
References
Farrar, J.L.. 1995. Trees in Canada. Fitzhenry & Whiteside Ltd. Toronto. ON. 504 pp.
Kershaw, L. 2001. Trees in Ontario: Including tall shrubs. Lone Pine Publishing. Edmonton. AB. 240 pp
Muma, W. 2011. Ontario Trees and Shrubs. [Online] Available: www.ontariotrees.com
OMNR, 2011. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources: Ontario Tree Atlas. [Online] Available: http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/267027.html
OMNR, 2008. Ontario’s Biodiversity: Species at Risk.