Aspen Poplar, European aspen, Aspen

Populus tremula

Physical Characteristics

Populus tremula is a deciduous Tree growing to 18 m (59ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower from February to March, and the seeds ripen from May to June. 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. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Iceland south and east to N. Africa, temperate Asia to Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Edible Uses: Inner bark - dried, ground into a powder then added to flour and used for making bread etc[2, 115]. A famine food, it is only used when all else fails[177].

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antiinflammatory Bach Diuretic Expectorant Febrifuge Stimulant The bark and the leaves are mildly diuretic, expectorant and stimulant[9, 165]. The plant is seldom used medicinally, but is sometimes included in propriety medicines for chronic prostate and bladder disorders[9]. Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, 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 and febrifuge. It is used especially in treating rheumatism and fevers, and also to relieve the pain of menstrual cramps[238]. The plant is used in Bach flower remedies - the keywords for prescribing it are 'Vague fears of unknown origin', 'Anxiety' and 'Apprehension'[209].

Known Hazards

None known