What is gray poplar?

Gray poplar, also known as the European aspen, is a deciduous tree native to the temperate regions of Europe and Asia. It is commonly planted for ornamental and timber purposes in North America. The gray poplar grows up to 30 meters tall and has a slender, upright trunk and a rounded canopy. Its leaves are triangular in shape with serrated edges and have a grayish-green color on the upper surface and a whitish-woolly underside. The bark is smooth and grayish-green, becoming darker and rougher with age. The gray poplar prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. It is a fast-growing tree that can tolerate a range of soils and environmental conditions. Additionally, it is often utilized in erosion control and reforestation projects due to its vigorous growth and ability to thrive in disturbed sites.