Alnus pendula
A graceful, small multi-stemmed tree or shrub to 8m high, 5m spread, with weeping branches. The strong green, glossy leaves hang sometimes showing their pale, downy lower surface. Male catkins open in spring, followed by female woody 'cones' in autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Cream | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | Brown | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Betulaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Spreading branched, Pendulous weeping
- Genus
Alnus are vigorous deciduous trees and large shrubs with rounded leaves and often conspicuous catkins in winter
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Japan & Korea
How to grow
Cultivation
It is a nitrogen-fixer so can grow on poor soil. Very tolerant of harsh environments even coastal, in any soil but good light. For more information see tree cultivation.
Propagation
Propagate by hardwood cuttings or seed. For more advice see our information on how to propagate from seed (tree/shrub
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Coastal
- Banks and slopes
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to alder leaf beetle, alder sucker and leaf-mining sawflies
Diseases
May be susceptible to phytophthora root rot and honey fungus
Get involved
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