Trembling poplar

The trembling poplar, also known as aspen or Populus tremula, is a plant of the poplar genus (Populus) from the Salicacdeae family. The relatively hard, long-stemmed leaves tremble in the wind, which explains the name. It is widespread in West Asia, North Africa and Europe, and the trembling poplar is the most common poplar species, especially in Europe.

Depending on the location, the aspen can reach a height of 35 m, but the average height is 20 m and it usually grows to about 100 years old.

The trembling poplar is characterised by a mostly straight or only slightly inclined trunk. In the course of its growth, the plant develops a conical crown. The bark of the younger poplar is very smooth and yellowish-brown in colour, while that of the older trees takes on a dark grey colour. The leaf buds of the tree have a yellow to dark brown colour. Its leaves are roundish in shape and have a long stem. Male trees have numerous thick, grey-brown catkins, while the female trees have green, 0.5 cm tall catkins with reddish bracts and grey hairs.

Populus tremula is, together with other poplar species, Populus monilifera (Canadian poplar), Populus balsamifera (balsam poplar), Populus alba (silver poplar), the parent plant of Populi gemmae the poplar buds and of Populi cortex or folium the poplar leaves or bark.