The deep rooting 'trembling poplar' has leaves that flutter and rustle in the wind. It is a fast growing deciduous tree with yellow and brown leaf buds that are sticky to the touch. Its leaves are circular in shape which taper to a little point and can grow up to 7 cm across.

They go a lovely yellow in autumn before they fall. Like willows the Aspen is either a male or a female tree and cannot change sex (the technical term being 'dioecious'). The male has long catkins up to 10 cm long and the female catkins are white and woolly. In the past the bark was used for tanning leather and whilst other trees have been used, the Aspens charcoal was considered the best for making gunpowder.

In Wales it was known as the tree that never rests as it was said to be the 'tree on which Christ was crucified' but there are many other traditions out there to explain the 'trembling leaves'.

Our broadleaf trees are delivered approximately 40cm and 60cm tall dependent upon seasonal variations. 

Our broadleaf trees are delivered approximately 40cm and 60cm tall dependent upon seasonal variations. 

Aspen likes

Damp soils and hillsides and lots of light.

Aspen dislikes

Shade.

Growth

Can grow up to 30m (100ft).

Origin

UK Native.