The Popple Tree

Huh? What's that?

Here, in the northern regions of northern Michigan, the name "popple" is often used for the Poplar tree. The Poplar tree family consists of many varieties, which include the Aspens and Cottonwoods.

While on a walk down to the lake, I spotted this singular tree thriving on the edge of a Red Pine plantation. Its light pale bark captured my attention against the background of green needles of the pines. Leaves are mainly in the bud stage on an early May day, so the tree's trunk and branches stood out nicely as a silhouette.

These "popples" are often confused with Birch Trees by folks visiting the woods.