Quaking Aspen
Populus tremuloides · Salicaceae (Willow family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Ovate to suborbicular (nearly round) with a sharply pointed apex and a flattened petiole
Margin
Finely serrate or crenate-serrate with rounded to blunt teeth
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate to somewhat palmate, with three main veins originating from the base and prominent, yellowish reticulate veins.
Key Features
Flattened leaf stem (petiole) that causes the leaf to tremble in the wind, finely toothed margins, rounded-to-ovate shape, and smooth whitish-green bark on mature trees.
Description
The Quaking Aspen is a slender, fast-growing deciduous tree famous for its white bark and leaves that flutter and tremble in the slightest breeze due to their flattened petioles. In autumn, the foliage turns a brilliant, glowing gold.
Habitat
Typically found in boreal and cool temperate forests, often forming vast clonal colonies. Thrives in moist to well-drained soils, often in disturbed areas or following fires.
Native Range
Widespread across North America, from Alaska and Canada down through the western United States to Mexico, and in the northeast.