Alnus glutinosa
common alder
A deciduous tree to 25m, broadly conical in habit when young, with grey-purple buds and young catkins conspicuous in winter, and rounded bright green leaves
Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Brown | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | Brown | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Betulaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Alnus are vigorous deciduous trees and large shrubs with rounded leaves and often conspicuous catkins in winter
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe to N Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
This genus is noted for its ability to thrive in poor, wet conditions and is widely used in land reclamation
Propagation
Propagate by seed or hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to alder sucker and leaf-mining sawflies
Diseases
May be susceptible to Phytophthora and honey fungus
Get involved
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