ALNUS GLUTINOSA

Botanical Name: Alnus glutinosa
Common Names: Black Alder, European Alder, Common Alder
Mature Size: 40–80 feet (12–25 meters) in height, 20–40 feet (6–12 meters) in spread
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, nutrient-rich, well-drained soils; tolerates compacted and poor soils
Water Needs: Moderate to high; thrives in wet conditions and tolerates waterlogged soils
Foliage: Deciduous, rounded to ovate green leaves with serrated margins; sticky when young
Flowers: Pendulous catkins (both male and female on the same tree); blooms in late winter to early spring
Growth Rate: Fast

Uses:
Erosion Control: Alnus glutinosa is ideal for stabilizing riverbanks and wetlands due to its dense, fibrous root system.
Ecological Restoration: Widely used in the reforestation of degraded lands and wetland rehabilitation projects.
Nitrogen Fixation: Forms a symbiotic relationship with actinomycete bacteria, enriching soils with nitrogen and supporting nearby vegetation.
Timber and Craft Use: Its water-resistant wood is traditionally used for pilings, cabinetry, and artisanal woodworking.

Benefits:
Soil Improvement: By fixing atmospheric nitrogen, it enhances soil fertility and supports ecological succession.
Flood Tolerance: Well-adapted to wet environments, tolerating seasonal flooding and waterlogged soils.
Ecological Value: Provides habitat and food for a wide range of wildlife, including birds, insects, and riparian mammals.
Shade and Structure: Offers attractive foliage and a sturdy, upright form that contributes shade and visual interest in natural landscapes.

Alnus glutinosa is a robust, fast-growing tree of high ecological importance, making it an excellent choice for wetland environments, restoration efforts, and sustainable landscape design. Its adaptability, soil-enhancing capabilities, and wildlife support make it a cornerstone species in environmental conservation.