Big-toothed Aspen

Populus grandidentata
Salicaceae
Pioneer species that grows well on disturbed land. Prefers deep organic layer and moist soils, but tolerates dry, gravelly soil and poor nutrients. Produces root sprouts which may form colonies.

Summary

Climate Tolerance
Poor
Wildlife Benefits
Moth/butterfly host; insect host, attracts woodpeckers; cavity nesting site
Pollination Type
Wind
Plant Hardiness Zones
3 to 6
# Butterfly/Moths that use as host
287
Bloom Time
Spring (Apr)
Shade/Sun Tolerance
Full Sun: Receives 6 or more hours of direct sunlight
Maximum Height
Medium (40-75 ft)
Growth Rate
Rapid: 2 ft or greater per year
Soil Type
Loam: Equal mix of clay, sand, and silt. Moderate moisture retention and high nutrient availability.
Sand: Large/coarse particles. Short moisture retention and low nutrient availability.
Soil Moisture Tolerance
Moist: Soil can remain damp and does not normally retain standing water
Root - Fungal Association
Arbuscular mycorrhizae: Symbiotic relationship with fungi that exist on inside of plant root cells, facilitating nutrient uptake
Ectomycorrhizae: Symbiotic relationship with fungi that exist on outside of plant root cells, facilitating nutrient uptake
Pest & Pathogen Risks
Low; cosmetic-leaf spot
Urban Stress Tolerance
Low: Tree will not grow well in the urban environment
Drought Tolerance
Sensitive: Tree will become stressed during periods of drought
Coefficient of Conservatism
2
Native Status
OH-Native: Species is native to Ohio
NatureServe G-rank
G5
Plant Community Type
  • Beech Mixed: Absent
  • Oak Mixed: Absent
  • Alluvial: Rare
  • Red Maple Mixed: Occasional
  • Ruderal: Rare
Bloom Color
Brown
Green
Yellow
Form
Tree
Lifespan
Short: Less than 100 years
Soil pH
Acidic (pH<6.8)
Wetland Indicator Status
FACU: Facultative Upland, usually occurs in non-wetlands, but may occur in wetlands
Soil Compaction Tolerance
Sensitive: Tree will become stressed from soil being compacted
Heat Tolerance
Sensitive: Tree will become stressed from increased temperature due to urban heat island effects
Salt Tolerant
Tolerant: Tolerant to both aerial salt spray and salt present in soil
Native County Status
Cuyahoga
Geauga
Lake
Lorain
Medina
Portage
Summit
IUCN Red List Assessment
Least Concern