European Alder (Alnus glutinosa)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Tree

European Alder
Alnus glutinosa

European Alder leaves
European Alder leaves
 
Features
Crisp, green foliage. 
 
Culture
Full sun to light shade; best growth occurs in moist to wet soils. 
 
Cultivars
'Imperialis' and 'Laciniata' are both cut-leaf varieties, but are not widely available. 
 
Mature Height
35-60 Feet
 
Size
Medium
Large
 
 
Mature Form
Oval to pyramidal, often multi-trunked 
 
Native To:
Europe and western Asia 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 7 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
Wet
 
 
Tolerance
Alkaline Soil
Wet Sites
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Uses
Shade
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Leaf miners
 
Additional Notes
A good choice for wet sites; this species is also tolerant of infertile soils since it can fix nitrogen into the soil.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic