Scottish Government

No 5140

3 SEPTEMBER 2002

Moves are underway to safeguard the last strongholds of one of Scotland's most ancient and unusual trees.

The delicate aspen tree - named 'old wives tongue' because of its ever quaking leaves - has been a rich source of folklore down the centuries, being both revered and loathed by generations of Highlanders.

Now only tiny remnants of aspen woodlands remain in Scotland and the race is on to link up crucial fragments and ensure the survival of this fascinating tree.

The aspen is believed to have been the first tree to recolonise Scotland after the last ice-age and many stories have grown up around it down the centuries. According to 18th century Highland folklore, Christ's cross was made from aspen, this being the reason its leaves tremble. It was also reputed to have strong medicinal properties - one reason, some believe, why it may have been planted or encouraged next to villages. In ancient times it was even used for shields, its supernatural powers believed to protect Celtic warriors.

Recently scientists have discovered the trembling-leaved tree is host to an amazing array of wildlife, including many rare species of flies, moths, beetles, fungi, lichens and mosses. In the last five years, species new to science and Britain and species thought to be extinct in this country have been detected on Scottish aspen. Such exciting discoveries have spurred scientists and conservationists into a frenzy of aspen action. Last year, over 120 delegates from across Europe attended Britain's first aspen conference, held at Kingussie in the heart of aspen country. However, experts admit that they are only just beginning to identify and understand the complex biodiversity associated with aspen.

From Glen Affric to the Cairngorms, work is underway to restore native aspen to areas where it has been lost. After hundreds of years of decline, a tiny area (only 160 hectares) of aspen woodland remains in Britain, and efforts are now focussed at making links between the most important of these in the north east Highlands.

"Exciting discoveries provide us with compelling reasons for promoting the conservation and management of aspen" said Peter Cosgrove, the Cairngorms Biodiversity Officer. "If you want to discover a rare species or find a new species for Britain, then have a look at an aspen!"

" However, despite being rare, aspen has survived best in areas where it is valued by local people, and it will only continue to survive with their help.

" Aspen woodlands are a striking and beautiful feature of the Highland landscape," Peter added. "Their shapely form and stunning autumn colours helping to make the area special for the people who live there and the countless people who visit each year. And with so much work going on to conserve and protect it, you can expect to hear a lot more about this fascinating tree."

Aspen is a flagship species of Scottish biodiversity week, nine days of events and activities to raise awareness about Scotland's rich variety of animals, plants, fungi, microbes and the habitats in which they live.

Over 100 events are planned across the country, ranging from guided walks, talks, interactive games and exhibitions to funghi forays, tree and wildflower planting. For more information on Scottish Biodoversity Week see www.scotland.gov.uk/biodiversity

Notes to editors:

1) Aspen (Latin name: Populus tremula) is a native Scottish broadleaved tree. For further information on aspen in Scotland contact Peter Cosgrove on 01479 873630 e:mail petercosgrove@cairngorms.prestel.co.uk

2) A wealth of information on aspen is available in free publication The Biodiversity and Management of Aspen Woodlands, available from Peter Cosgrove.

Catriona Ross, Forestry Commission Press Office 0131 314 6289.