Aspen Poplar

• Native deciduous tree (up to 15–20m tall) with distinctive fluttering leaves that rustle in the slightest breeze, creating a soothing sound.
• Striking silvery-white bark on young stems; rounded leaves turn golden-yellow in autumn for vibrant colour.
• Fast-growing and hardy; excellent for wildlife gardens – catkins provide early pollen/nectar for bees, leaves support moth caterpillars, habitat for birds.
• Highly tolerant of wet, poor, or exposed sites; ideal for windbreaks, woodland planting, or naturalising damp areas.
• Spreads via suckers to form attractive groves; low-maintenance once established.

Planting Guide

• Best time: Bare-root November–March (dormant season); container-grown autumn or spring.
• Location: Full sun to partial shade; moist to wet soil (tolerates clay, boggy, or poor sites but dislikes dry chalk); ;arge open space required – avoid near buildings/pipes due to suckering roots; suitable for exposed/windy areas.
• Preparation: Dig hole twice root width width; add organic matter to very poor soils.
• Planting: Set at original depth (check trunk soil mark); stake young trees; firm in, water well, mulch base (keep clear of trunk) to reduce week competition and conserve soil moisture.
• Aftercare: Water well first few years in dry spells; remove unwanted suckers to control spread; minimal pruning (late winter if needed); vigorous and potentially invasive in small gardens.