Aspen
Populus tremula
Aspen is a fast-growing tree which is known for the way its leaved leaves flutter and move in the breeze, this movement is referred to in its scientific name 'tremula', which means to 'tremble'.
Estimate full grown height: 12-20 metres, growing an estimated 70-80cm each year.
Purchase size and growth: These trees are cell-grown saplings, ranging from approximately 15cm-60cm in height. Cell grown trees can be planted all year round in most situations as long as they are given the correct care. Please be aware that depending upon the time of year you receive your sapling (particularly early spring) it may not look very perky upon arrival, but please do not worry, as once it has been planted it should pick up quickly.
Value to wildlife: Aspen trees attract a wide variety of insects, including two gall midges and the aspen hoverfly, which feeds in dead aspen wood. These insects provide a variety of food for predators such as bird and ladybirds. Deadwood cavities provide offer nesting opportunities for birds such aslike the woodpecker. Aspen is even a preferred species for beavers, which are native to thehave recently been reintroduced to the UK.
Preferred soil type or environmental conditions: Aspen flourishes in open sunlight and moist soil and is intolerant of shade. It is most common in the north-west of Scotland.
UK and Ireland Sourced and Grown (UKISG): Every sapling that we provide is UK and Ireland sourced and grown to minimise the risk of importing and spreading tree pests and diseases. Seeds are collected and stored in the UK and Ireland, and they are all coded and batched so that we can track each individual tree.
Learn more about this tree on our aspen species profile.
