Aspen Clump

The Clump aspen is also known as the Quaking aspen. It was one of the first species of trees to invade those open prairies of North America. This multiple-stemmed, upright deciduous tree is native to Colorado. These aspens grow tall and have a slight pyramidal shape. For that reason, the Clump aspen is often mistaken for a birch. As the tree matures, it does develop into a more rounded form.

This aspen features oval-shaped leaves. The colors appear as dark green on the top with a lighter green shade found on the undersides. Throughout the summer, these leaves will catch the sun with their waxy texture. In the fall, the green leaves turn into brilliant shades of yellow and gold. Some varieties of Clump aspens can produce pockets of red or orange autumn colors. Its vibrant color palette makes a big statement in your landscape.

This fast-growing tree has smooth white bark. However, when the tree matures, the bark turns into a greenish-white color. Along with that, the white bark becomes more furrowed as the tree ages. In the early days, this aspen bark was used for medicinal purposes.

In those well-maintained areas, the Clump aspen is an exceptional choice as a specimen tree. You can mix these trees with other species or use a single plant for a more natural look. The Clump aspen can enclose a space without overwhelming your landscape. If you are looking for a cozy retreat into nature, plant these trees in a loose, zig-zag pattern. For a unique pathway through your yard, make sure to add some mulch as a trail between several of these Clump aspens.

If you want to create a quiet space in a backyard, the Clump aspen can be planted in a gently curved row. These aspens make an excellent plant near a patio or deck. With these native trees, you can bring the beauty of the great outdoors to your backyard. When combined with some natural elements, these aspens will shine in your yard. You might want to pair them with native ferns or large boulders. For an added touch, you can even take some wildflower seeds to sow among the trees. With some low-growing native plants, the Clump aspen can excel as a focal point.

The Clump aspen loves those 2 to 6 zones in the USDA hardiness chart. You need to place these aspens in areas with full to partial sunshine. If you have a wildlife habitat that needs direct sunlight, these trees are the ideal choice. Make sure to plant these aspens on the eastern or northern slopes of your property.

The Clump aspen can adapt to a wide range of soils. They tend to love humus soil. However, the Clump aspen is not tolerant of those dry or hot soils. You will want to keep the soil consistently moist. For those younger trees, monitor the water amounts throughout the year. If there is too much water, then the aspen might not produce those brilliant spring colors. Since the Clump aspen is naturally found in the Rocky Mountains, it can thrive in those rocky soils.

Most landscapers will allow the tree to form naturally. If you want to shape your Clump aspen, pruning is recommended. In some cases, pruning is required to remove any dead branches. With this species, you should watch out for pests and diseases.

These Clump aspens are often found in the wild, but you can bring these trees home to your landscape. In those light breezes, you will enjoy the subtle rustle of the gorgeous leaves. The Clump aspen lights up those spaces with shades of yellow during the fall. With all these attributes, this tree makes a perfect addition to your space.

Arbor Valley Nursery has a wide selection of trees and shrubs. Our team can help you find the right product for your landscaping project, including the Clump aspen. If you want to add some brilliant color to your outdoor spaces, please take a few minutes to fill out the contact form.