Large-Tooth Aspen

Scientific name

Populus grandidentata

Description

The Large Tooth Aspen is a broadleaf hardwood tree species, which may also be referred to as the Big Tooth Aspen, American Aspen or White Poplar. This species can grow from 18-24 m tall and produces a single, narrow trunk with a loose, open, irregular crown. Large Tooth Aspen bark is thin, smooth, and gray to gray-brown in colour with ridges and diamond shaped lenticels. This tree species produces tan coloured catkin flowering bodies in the early spring, prior to leaf development. During the fall, the catkins give way to pear-shaped seeds with silky hairs at their base. The leaves are alternately arranged, are olive green in colour, and ovate in shape with large blunt teeth. During the fall, the leaves turn a golden yellow colour. This tree provides an important food source for wildlife including bird species, such as the Ruff Grouse, as well as mammals, like Moose and Rabbits. Large Tooth Aspen is an early colonizer species so it is fast growing but short lived tree, typically living to about 60 years old. The roots of this tree grow very quickly so this species can be useful for stabilizing soil and controlling erosion.

Planting conditions

Large Tooth Aspen can grow in a variety of soil types and moisture levels but prefers full sun and is intolerant of shade.

Details

• Plant height:
  • Any
  • Over 3m
• Moisture level:
  • Normal
  • Moist
  • Wet
• Light conditions:
  • Full sun
• Soil type:
  • Sandy
  • Loamy
  • Rocky
• pH:
  • Acidic
  • Normal
• Depth:
  • Potted
  • Bareroot
• Eco Zone:
  • 3a
  • 3b
  • 4a
  • 4b
  • 5a
  • 5b
  • 6a
  • 6b
  • 7a
  • 7b
• Plant type:
  • Tree
• Height:
  • 18-24m
• Spread:
  • 3m