Quaking aspen(Populus tremuloides) Salicaceae

Quaking Aspen leaves are somewhat heart shaped, with finely saw-toothed margins.

The twigs are hairless, with dark bark.

Also called trembling aspens, Quaking aspens are named for their leaves. Flat leaves attach to branches with lengthy stalks called petioles, which quake or tremble in light breezes.

It grows best where soils are moist and sunshine is plentiful. Aspen is intolerant of shade, and does not compete well with more shade-tolerant species like conifers.

Deer, moose, and elk seek shade from aspen groves in summer. These same animals consume bark, leaves, buds, and twigs of quaking aspens throughout the year.

Ruffed grouse are especially dependent on quaking aspens for food and nesting habitat.

quaking aspens for fuel and to make paper, particle board, furniture, and hamster bedding. In terms of height, quaking aspens are relatively small. They usually grow just shy of 50 feet tall.