About
Alnus glutinosa is a deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 25 meters. In its early stages, it has a broadly conical shape. During winter, its grey-purple buds and young catkins become prominent features. The leaves are rounded and a vibrant green as they mature.
About the genus
Alnus comprises robust deciduous trees and sizable shrubs characterized by their rounded foliage and, during winter, noticeable catkins.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- Higher than 12 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 20-50 years
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Europe to N Africa
Care notes
- Cultivation
- This genus is noted for its ability to thrive in poor, wet conditions and is widely used in land reclamation
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to alder sucker and leaf-mining sawflies
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to Phytophthora and honey fungus