Quaking Aspen
Populus tremuloides · Salicaceae (Willow and Poplar family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Broadly ovate to nearly orbicular with a pointed apex
Margin
Finely serrate or crenate-serrate with rounded teeth
Arrangement
Alternate on the twig, attached by a distinctly flattened long petiole
Venation
Pinnate to somewhat palmate venation with a prominent pale yellow midrib
Key Features
Flattened leaf stem (petiole), finely toothed rounded-to-ovate leaf blade, bright yellow fall color, and smooth whitish-green bark on the living tree
Description
The Quaking Aspen is a medium-sized deciduous tree famous for its smooth white bark and its bright yellow autumn foliage. The leaves are uniquely engineered with flattened petioles that cause them to flutter and tremble at the slightest breeze, creating a distinct rustling sound.
Habitat
Cool temperate to boreal forests, mountain slopes, and riparian zones, thriving in moist to well-drained soils and full sun
Native Range
Widely distributed across North America, from Alaska and Canada down through the northern United States and extending south in high-elevation mountain ranges