Aspen, Tree species in Västra Götaland, Sweden.
Aspens are deciduous trees with white bark and rounded leaves that quiver in the breeze, creating a distinctive visual effect throughout the forest. They spread through extensive underground root systems that continuously generate new shoots across a wide area.
Aspen populations have existed in these Swedish forests since the last ice age, shaping the region's ecological development over thousands of years. Their presence reflects the long-term stability of the forest ecosystem.
Local communities have traditionally used aspen wood in sauna construction because of its resistance to moisture and heat. This practice shows how people adapted to the natural resources available in their forests.
These trees grow in clusters spread throughout the forest and can be observed from various trails and paths. They are easiest to spot during spring and autumn when leaf color changes make them stand out.
These trees can photosynthesize through their bark even after dropping their leaves in winter, allowing them to grow year-round. This unusual ability sets them apart from most other tree species in the region.
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