Quaking Aspen Tree Facts

The Quaking Aspen tree, also called trembling aspen, is named for its distinctive leaves. Flat leaves are attached to branches with slender stalks called petioles, which quake or tremble in light breezes.

It is a deciduous tree native to cooler areas of North America and is one of several species commonly called Aspen. If there were a Guinness Book of World Records for trees, the Quaking Aspen would appear several times due to its unique characteristics.

Quaking Aspen Tree Facts

This tree is one of the most widespread species in North America. The main reason for this is its ability to thrive in mountainous areas. In fact, they dominate one of the main forest communities in the Rockies, the fir-aspen zone.

The Quaking Aspen reaches 40–50 feet in height and 20–30 feet in width at maturity. It also provides shade and serves as an ornamental tree, featuring a broad canopy that not only blocks sunlight but also enhances landscapes with visual charm.

The Quaking Aspen has a height increase of more than 24 inches per year, making it one of the fastest-growing trees.

Distinctive Traits and Uses

• Provides stunning yellow fall color.
• Adds movement and a soft, pleasant sound to the landscape due to the “quaking” leaves.
• Has smooth, greenish-white to cream bark on a long, narrow trunk.
• Sends up sprouts from its shallow, wide-spreading roots.
• Is used to make products such as toys, tongue depressors, popsicle sticks, clothespins, crates, and paper pulp.
• Features rounded, triangular leaves with small teeth on the margins and arranged alternately on the branches.
• Produces long, silvery catkins typically in April and May.
• Yields tiny seeds that are dispersed by the wind on cottony tufts in late spring.
• Grows in an oval shape.
• It is one of the first trees to spring up after a forest fire.

How to Grow Quaking Aspen Trees

For those interested in planting a Quaking Aspen in yard landscapes, it is best to select nursery-grown specimens rather than wild ones. Nursery-grown trees establish more successfully and are generally healthier.

A large part of quaking aspen tree care involves selecting an appropriate planting location. Plant the trees in moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. With the right setting, quaking aspens can provide beauty and ecological value to any property.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical Quaking Aspen size?

At maturity, quaking aspens generally reach 40–50 feet in height with a spread of 20–30 feet.

How fast do aspens grow?

Quaking aspens are considered fast growers, typically increasing in height by more than 24 inches per year under favorable conditions.

What are some unique Quaking Aspen facts?

They are among the most widespread trees in North America, can quickly regenerate after wildfires, and often grow as large interconnected groves through their shared root systems.

How should Quaking Aspen care be managed?

Plant in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Choosing nursery-grown specimens helps avoid disease issues, and consistent watering during establishment is critical.

Should I plant a Quaking Aspen in the yard?

Yes, if you have the right conditions. They provide fall color, shade, and a distinctive sound from their trembling leaves, but their spreading roots and sprouting habit can require careful planning.

Arbor Hills Tree Farm & Nursery Omaha

We provide the Highest Quality Field Grown Nebraska Trees and Shrubs – directly to our customers, at the lowest possible price.

Whether you are looking for trees for:

• new home landscaping
• wind blockage
• commercial or residential

Arbor Hills will work with you to provide the most beautiful Nebraska grown trees available. We grow most of our tree inventory and transport in bulk in early spring – to a holding site in West Omaha for distribution. Most trees can be delivered and planted within 5 to 7 days if you reside in the Omaha metro area. We also source other high quality trees and shrubs from other growers to supply the Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa market.