Populus tremula

Description

Populus tremula is medium-sized, fast-growing native deciduous tree, with a wide distribution over Europe, Asia and Africa. A very distinctive tree, with leaves that shimmer and tremble in the slightest breeze, so that they are constantly moving and rustling. The leaves turn a rich golden yellow in autumn, and the young leaves are bronze in spring, making it attractive at all seasons. It is one of our most important trees for wildlife, supporting a wide range of insects.

It will grow well on all soils except very thin chalk, and thrives on exposed sites too, creating a good shelterbelt.