Content of the article:
Aspen tree is common in temperate climates. This species must be distinguished from poplar - its closest relative. With a slight breeze of wind, his crown is set in motion, therefore this plant is also called “trembling poplar”.However, it is valued not only for its decorative qualities. Different parts of the tree are used for construction purposes and medicine, and shoots are used as animal feed.
Description of the species
The aspen tree grows to 15–20 m in height, some representatives can reach 30 m. This species has a straight columnar stem up to 1 m in diameter and a gray smooth bark with an olive shade. On average, the life of an aspen is from 80 to 100 years, but some centenarians can grow up to 150 years or more.
Aspen has several prominent features:
- bark remains smooth even in mature trees, sometimes shallow longitudinal cracks appear;
- rounded leaves, which at the beginning of the season are painted in a light green color, then darken, turn yellow and fall off;
- is a flat, but powerful and wide root system;
- bloom period begins in late July or early May.
The leaves are rounded and arranged on long, flat cuttings.
In the photo, the aspen tree can be confused with poplar. To distinguish these two species, it is enough to compare their leaves. They are round and have notches along the perimeter, and their width exceeds the length. Their peculiarity lies in the fact that they are fixed on flat cuttings. Thanks to this form, they bend well, and with the slightest breeze of the wind, the crown is set in motion. The front side of the plate is shiny, the back is matte.
In the description of an aspen tree, the shape and color of flowers also matters. They are bisexual and form inflorescences - earrings. Female flowers are bright maroon, male flowers are light green. In the fall, seed boxes are formed on them, which are then carried by the wind.
What is the value of wood?
Aspen is grown on an industrial scale or parts of wild trees are used. The bark is harvested for the winter and is eaten to tone the body and strengthen the immune system. The branches are added to sauerkraut for longer shelf life. Previously, this plant was used to make flour, which was used in baking bread. Now this tree is valued for its high-quality wood, and also continues to be used in traditional medicine.
The gender of the tree can be determined by the color of the inflorescences.
In medicine,
Different parts of the aspen tree are a source of organic acids, vitamins, carbohydrates and other beneficial substances. Broths and infusions are made from its leaves and bark, shoots are used to make tinctures and ointments. Means can also be added to general strengthening baths. Depending on the method of use, aspen allows you to get rid of a number of problems:
- decoctions - from wet cough and excessive sweating;
- leaves - against hemorrhoids, seasonal diseases of the upper respiratory tract;
- bark in the form of tinctures - from arthritis, cough, inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract, as well as to stimulate immune defense and improve appetite;
- annual shoots - with bleeding;
- baths have a tonic effect, normalize the work of the nervous system.
Aspen-based medicines can be purchased at the pharmacy.
Aspen is popular exclusively in traditional medicine. Such remedies have a milder effect than pharmaceuticals, but before using them you should consult with your doctor.
For the cultivation of soil
Aspen improves the properties of the soil on which it grows. In the autumn period, abundant leaf fall can be observed, and small branches are also shed by trees. During the winter, this material undergoes a series of chemical transformations and becomes a useful fertilizer. In addition, the root system has its own characteristics. The roots are shallow, but extend over a considerable distance. In the soil in which the aspen grew, there remain multilevel passages, which are used by more demanding crops. Cultivation of this species is practiced to improve clay and insufficiently fertile soils with low moisture conductivity.
Aspen has a strong root system and often crowds out other plants.
Aspen Wood in Construction
Aspen is also processed into boards. Adult trees that have reached the age of 40-45 years are suitable for construction purposes. The wood is light, practically has no pattern. It has several features:
- highly resistant to high humidity and precipitation;
- soft but homogeneous structure;
- long life - over time, it does not crack;
- low cost.
Aspen wood is an unstable species, therefore not suitable for the construction of residential premises. However, it is popular in the manufacture of wells, baths and other buildings, as well as in the manufacture of matches.
In landscape design
It is important to understand where the aspen tree grows in order to use it in landscape design. She prefers well-lit areas and suppresses other plant species. 
Representatives of this species grow rapidly, forming up to 3 m of young shoots in the first years. They are not afraid of heat and frost, quickly recovering after winter. However, they have one problem - the center of the trunk often rots. 
With age, trees become friable and fragile, so when they are grown in cultural conditions, it is important to check their condition annually.
banana tree Aspen is popular in landscape design not only for decorative purposes, but also because of its beneficial properties:
- aspen plants well protect from the wind;
- on the banks of ponds wood prevents soil from slipping;
- in large settlements is used for landscaping and air purification;
- is rarely exposed to fire.
Aspen is widespread. In most cases, it forms a separate landing, displacing less strong trees. In nature, it propagates by seed, but it is more convenient to purchase and plant seedlings. These are strong trees with a wide root system, unpretentious to growing conditions. They are popular in construction and landscape design, and continue to be used for the preparation of traditional medicines.
