Populus grandidentata, commonly known as Bigtooth Aspen or Largetooth Aspen, is a striking deciduous tree native to northeastern North America. As a fast-growing, early successional species, Bigtooth Aspen swiftly reaches heights of 60 to 80 feet, with diameters up to 10 inches. Its distinctive, gently ascending branches and straight trunk make it an iconic figure in the landscape. Despite its rapid growth, this member of the Willow family is relatively short-lived, with most stands starting to decline after 60 to 70 years, although individual trees can live up to 100 years.
This shade-intolerant pioneer species reproduces from seeds borne on drooping catkins, appearing in April or May and dispersing by June. The leaves, emerging around early June, are oval-shaped with dense whitish hairs, giving the tree an easily recognizable appearance in spring. In autumn, it dazzles with a spectacular display of yellows, oranges, and bronzes. The wood of Bigtooth Aspen is valued for its light color and straight grain, used primarily for pulp, particleboard, and other practical applications. Its bark has historical uses in medicine by Native American tribes, adding cultural significance to its ecological role. Providing food and shelter for various wildlife, Bigtooth Aspen enriches the regions it inhabits, which span from Virginia to southeastern Canada and westward to Minnesota.
