Aspen

Aspen is the English vocabulary word denoting a type of poplar tree, the aspen tree; from the Olde English “æspe”. Aspen trees are native to the cool northern climates of the Northern Hemisphere, but extend south to mountainous regions with high altitudes. The aspen generally grows to reach between 50 and 100 ft. in height, and, although they dwell in colder climates, they flourish with direct sunlight. What makes an aspen tree unique is its ability to quickly take root and reproduce itself. Its complex root system allows the tree to spread underground great distances from the “parent” tree and sprout up more trees (creating a grove from a single specimen). As old trees die, new trunks will spring up. It’s for this reason that certain aspen groves are considered among the oldest living organisms originating from continuous colonies derived from a single “parent” tree. For instance, the “Pando” colony in south central Utah is estimated to be 80,000 years old (considered one of the oldest and largest living organisms in the world!). The Latin word “pando” aptly means “I spread”. Aside from their unique root system and hearty reproduction, aspen trees are also known for the pleasant, gentle sound they make. The quivering, shimmery leaves of the aspen gracefully rustle in even the lightest of winds. In the autumn, the leaves leap from their branches in vivid colors of yellow, orange and red. In terms of mythological symbolism, the aspen tree represents one’s ability to overcome fears and doubt in the face of change. The indomitable aspen will persist with tenacious determination. The aspen tree also symbolize the strength and power of community as represented by the large colonies or groves created by one single organism (united as one). As a female given name, Aspen is new to the “tree” names for girls (e.g., Willow, Olive, Laurel, Holly and Hazel). It is also most commonly used in the United States.