Quaking Aspen (Trembling Aspen, American Aspen, Golden Aspen)
Populus tremuloides · Salicaceae (Willow and Poplar family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Deltoid to broadly ovate with an acute to acuminate apex and a rounded to truncate base
Margin
Finely serrate to crenate-serrate with rounded or blunt teeth
Arrangement
Alternate on the twig, attached via a notably flat petiole
Venation
Pinnate to somewhat palmately net-veined (reticulate) with a prominent light-colored midrib and primary veins radiating from the base
Key Features
Flattened petiole causing the trembling leaves, finely serrated margins, deltoid leaf shape, and smooth greenish-white bark on younger trunks.
Description
The Quaking Aspen is a medium-sized deciduous tree famous for its striking white bark and leaves that flutter and tremble at the slightest breeze due to their flattened petioles. In autumn, the foliage transforms into a brilliant golden-yellow, creating stunning landscape displays.
Habitat
Found in moist to well-drained soils of uplands, forest margins, and disturbed areas. Prefers full sun and is often the first tree to colonize after forest fires.
Native Range
Widely distributed across North America, extending from Alaska across Canada down to northern Mexico, making it the most widely distributed tree species in North America.