The name references the quaking or trembling of the leaves that occurs in even a slight breeze due to the flattened petioles.

Other species of Populus have petioles flattened partially along their length, while the Quaking Aspen’s are flattened from side to side along the entire length of the petiole.

This quaking of the leaves produces a soft sound that many consider a hallmark of the Quaking Aspen.

A tall, fast growing tree can get up to 70 ft. at maturity.  The bark is relatively smooth greenish-white to gray and is marked by thick black horizontal scars and prominent black knots.

The leaves are simple, alternate, and heart-shaped to nearly round, 1″-3″ long; dark green and shiny above, pale green below, with small, rounded teeth on the margins. Leaf stem flattened.

Noted for its brilliant fall colors, leaves turn bright yellow, yellow-orange, gold, or reddish after the first frosts.