Aspen Trees
Aspen Trees are the most widely distributed tree in all of North America. They can be found from Alaska through Canada, into the continental United States south and into Mexico. Colorado and Utah (the Rocky Mountains) are home to the largest populations of Aspens in the world.
Aspen Trees are a part of the willow family. There are six species: Big Tooth Aspen; Quaking, Trembling or American Aspen; Common, Swedish, Trembling or Eurasian Aspen; Grey Poplar; Japanese Aspen; Chinese Aspen; and White Poplar.
This tree species can live in the wild for approximately 120 years. Taller trees provide shade for young spruce and fir trees below, and are an important part of the ecosystem. They provide habitat for woodpeckers, bluebirds, swallows, and other species of animals. Fallen aspen leaves, bark, and other parts of the tree provide an environment for insects, bacteria, and fungi. Deer are attracted to Aspen Trees and the bark as well.
Stately Aspens usually reach 20 to 50 feet tall, with a spread of 10 to 30 feet wide.
Their leaves change color seasonally, usually a brilliant yellow color, and they are nearly round in shape. The leaves quiver in the breeze and can twist and shake due to flattened petioles. This can also allow greater photosynthesis to occur by factoring in more light during the day. They are known for their shivering or quaking leaves in nature.
Legend has it that the crucifix that Jesus Christ died upon was made from an Aspen Tree. The tree was filled with grief and remorse after Jesus died, and all Aspen trees have trembled and quivered ever since. Aspen Trees are the only trees that are said to tremble but never bend at the strongest of winds.
Modern Aspens are often grown in colonies derived from a particular seedling. One colony in Utah is approximately 80,000 years old, possibly the oldest living colony.
According to Northern Arizona University, Aspen Trees are in decline on the Colorado Plateau. The U.S. Forest Service estimates between 1962 and 1986, the population declined by 46 percent in Arizona and New Mexico. That is due to the combination of modern fire suppression methods, and a steady increase in elk herbivory in many forests.
Scientific researchers continue their studies, particularly in the Midwest regions, to see how carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases affect forest ecology and diversity in the long term. In one study, forest scientists are researching how Quaking Aspen, Paper Birch, and Sugar Maple Trees in Wisconsin will respond to the levels of carbon dioxide and ozone expected in the north by 2050.