About
Alnus x spaethii is a robust, rapidly growing tree that typically reaches heights exceeding 12 meters. It has a conical shape and produces large, elongated leaves with serrated edges, which exhibit a purplish tint during their early development. In spring, the tree showcases clusters of yellow catkins. This species is well-suited for expansive areas or urban streetscapes.
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, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-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, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Noted for its ability to thrive in poor, wet conditions but is also tolerant of dry soils once established
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1 between leaf fall and midwinter
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to alder sucker, alder leaf beetle and leaf-mining sawflies
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to Phytophthora and honey fungus