The tree of popular choice (5)
I believe the answer is:
larch
'the tree' is the definition.
(larch is a kind of tree)
'of popular choice' is the wordplay.
'of' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'LARCH' is hidden in the letters of 'popular choice'.
(Other definitions for larch that I've seen before include "Deciduous conifer" , "Supplier of timber" , "wood" , "Coniferous tree with deciduous bright green needles" .)