Aspen 'Erecta'

'Erecta' is a narrow, columnar version of the native British Aspen. It is a fascinating tree, most famous for its round, coarsely-toothed leaves that have flattened petioles. This unique structure causes the leaves to tremble and "shimmer" in the slightest breeze, creating a soothing rustling sound and a dynamic visual effect. The foliage emerges with a bronze tint, turns mid-green in summer, and then transforms into a vivid, glowing yellow or orange in autumn. This cultivar is particularly useful in the UK for providing height in restricted spaces or for creating formal lines. It is incredibly hardy (H7) and vigorous, capable of growing in a wide range of conditions, though it prefers moist, heavy soils. It is a deciduous tree that produces attractive catkins in early spring. Because it does not spread wide, it is far more garden-friendly than many other Populus species, though its root system can be vigorous, so it should be planted away from buildings.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, adaptable to clay.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Mar.