Quaking aspen is the most widespread tree in North America. They can grow up to 80 feet tall and live for 150 years. P. tremuloides can grow on many different soil types. Aspen trees are pioneer species and grow quickly in disturbed sites. Their tolerance of different soil conditions and ability to produce root sprouts allow them to quickly populate after a disturbance. Root sprouting is the most common form of reproduction. Vegetative shoots sprout from a lateral root. The root sprouts will form clusters of clones. When these clusters become too dense they are usually replaced by more shade tolerant conifers. 

 

Climate change is expected to affect P. tremuloides, especially in the north. Warmer soil conditions can increase biomass growth and increase nitrogen mineralization in soils. This may have negative consequences for northern hardwood forests, as quaking aspen begin to out-compete different deciduous and coniferous trees, decreasing biodiversity and forest health.

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Quaking aspens are also affected by forest tent caterpillars. These pests consume foliage and reduce growth resulting in increased tree mortality. More trees die the longer forest tent caterpillars infest a Quaking Aspen stand. Drought also affects P. tremuloides success. Though they can persist in drier soils larger stands can not survive an extended drought.