The fuzzy catkins of aspen are unfurling throughout Tudek Park this week, and can serve as a reminder of the importance of these and other native trees in a pollinator habitat.
Though they are primarily wind-pollinated, relying on spring breezes to carry their pollen from male to female trees, members of the Populus family serve as excellent host plants for over 350 species of lepidoptera. For example, quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides, pictured here) hosts mourning cloak, big poplar sphinx, eastern tiger swallowtail, and great ash sphinx. In addition, these caterpillars provide a well-stocked grocery store for birds as they work hard to feed their nestlings. And as the season progresses, aspens provide food and habitat for many other birds and small mammals.
From a purely aesthetic perspective, the trembling leaves of quaking aspen create a shimmering effect and a lovely sound, and yellow fall foliage contrasts nicely with the pale bark. If you’re looking to add a smaller, fast-growing tree to your landscape this spring, consider quaking aspen!
