Canadian Aspen, Bigtooth aspen

Populus grandidentata

Physical Characteristics

Populus grandidentata is a deciduous Tree growing to 20 m (65ft 7in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower in March, and the seeds ripen in April. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

North-eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Manitoba, south to North Carolina.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Edible Uses: Inner bark - boiled[46, 61, 105, 161, 257]. There are no more details but inner bark is often dried, ground into a powder and then used as a thickener in soups etc or added to cereals when making bread.

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antiinflammatory Febrifuge Tonic The bark of most, if not all members of the genus contain salicin, a glycoside that probably decomposes into salicylic acid (aspirin) in the body[213, 238]. The bark is therefore anodyne, anti-inflammatory, febrifuge and tonic[4, 238]. It is used especially in treating rheumatism and fevers, and also to relieve the pain of menstrual cramps[238]. An infusion of the bark has been used to ease and lessen menstrual flow[257].

Known Hazards

None known