Common Alder (Alnus glutinosa)
A damp-loving tree commonly seen growing by watercourses. It can reach heights of up to 30m, and will not tolerate overly dry conditions. The species is monoecious, meaning flowers of both sexes can be found on the same tree, the female ones resembling small pine cones once the seeds have been shed. The species is also notable for being able to fix nitrogen in the soil, thus benefiting other species in the immediate area. It does this through a symbiotic relationship with a bacterium, which receives the carbon it needs through the tree's roots for its efforts!
Suitable Soil Conditions
- Alkali Soil
- Heavy Soil
- Wet Soil
- Very Wet Soil
Suitable Site Conditions
- Coastal Site
- Exposed Site
- Shaded Site
Ultimate Tree Height
- 10 - 20m
Growth Rate
- Fast