Tree Categories: Fall Color Trees, Fast Growing Trees, and Native Trees
Mature Tree Height: 40-60 feet tall | Mature Tree Width: 20-30 feet wide
Tree Growing Zones: Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, and Zone 7
The Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides) is a medium- to large-sized, fast-growing tree. It has a shapely pyramidal form when it is young and matures into a narrow, rounded crown and sparse canopy. Its foliage is triangle and rounded, with small serrated teeth that chatter and “quake” when blowing in the breeze, hence the name. They are glossy green in the spring and summer before transforming into a stunning bright yellow in autumn. Its bark is quite showy on the long, slender trunk, sporting distinct greenish-white to cream colors that make it a pleasant site in the winter landscape.
The Quaking Aspen is native to North America and has one of the largest ranges out of any other tree on the continent, stretching east to west across nine time zones. It is the state tree of Utah.
This tree is a good choice as an ornamental tree on its own or planted with others for its showy bark and fall foliage. Serves well near patios or places where people often hang out and hear the unique chatter of the leaves in the wind. It can also be used to control erosion in hill spots in forest landscapes or be a screen for slower growing trees. It will grow pretty much anywhere except for in hot and humid conditions. Does best in full sun.
