Hansen's Northwest Native Plant Database

Kingdom Plantae – Plants

Subkingdom Tracheobionta – Vascular plants

Superdivision Spermatophyta – Seed plants

Division Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants

Class Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons

Subclass Dilleniidae

Order Salicales

Family Salicaceae – Willow family

Genus Populus L. – cottonwood

Species Populus tremuloides Michx. – quaking aspen

This small ornamental tree is of the highest quality, growing rapidly to reach at least 30' and developing a full, round crown.

The triangular leaves quiver on long, flattened stalks.

In fall, the brilliant golden fall leaves underscore the soft, greenish bark.

Quaking Aspen is extremely adaptable and occurs across North America, to USDA zone 1. Along the Pacific coast, it grows from the Bering Strait to Mexico.

It prefers moist but not soggy sites and is often planted in groups.

This tree forms a dense root system and is an excellent choice for soil reclamation projects or planting after a fire.

There is an old fashioned charm about Quaking Aspen. The gentle trembling leaves on a warm summer day create a peaceful garden.