Aspen

Populus tremuloides

FAMILY NAME Salicaceae

CHARACTERISTICS Almost circular 2 to 10cm (¾ to 4in) in length, 2 to 7cm (¾ to 2¾in) width

HABITAT Forests, woodlands, thickets, meadows and shrublands

DISTRIBUTION Native to North America

FLOWERS AND FRUIT The flowers are catkins and appear in early spring. The fruits are a string of capsules, each containing tiny seeds

Also known as the Quaking Aspen or Quaking Poplar, the tree has round leaves that delicately shimmer in the breeze. The leaves twist on the stalk and tremble as the wind passes through them. In autumn they look even more stunning, turning a bright yellow hue. The state tree of Utah, it’s also highly popular with beavers, who gnaw through it and use the branches in their lodges. This is a clever choice because the timber doesn’t splinter and for this reason is often used to construct benches.