The aspen tree is the common name for certain poplars such as the quaking or trembling aspens. These species have petioles (leafstalks) so compressed that the leaves can move easily from side to side but not up or down. A breeze sets all leaves of one of these trees into motion, creating a whispering like sound. This is why the natural area is named Whispering Woods. The most familiar species are the American aspen, found in North America, including Whispering Woods; the large-toothed aspen, found in eastern Canada; and the European aspen, found in Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa.

Figures 4 & 5   aspen leaves; aspen bark

Scientific classification: Aspens belong to the genus Populus, of the family Salicaceae. The American aspen is classified as Populus tremuloides, the large-toothed aspen as Populus grandidentata, and the European aspen as Populus tremula.

Figures 6 & 7   aspen; aspen grove in Whispering Woods