Alnus rubra

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Red Alder

Red alder is a deciduous, fast growing medium sized tree reaching 80-120 feet tall and 1 to 3 feet in diameter. Space 20-40′ apart.

Alders provide filtered light, not the dark shade of other trees. They are excellent for waterside and boggy sites.

Their chief beauty is the speckled bark that shows well in the winter. They also have light, golden leaves in the autumn. In moist forest areas Alnus rubra will rapidly cover a former burn or clearcut, temporarily preventing the growth of conifers but also improving soil fertility for future growth of conifers.

Lifeform: Tree

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade

Water: High, Moderate

Soil: Clay, Loam

Other: Attracts Birds, Attracts Butterflies, Erosion Control

 

Container

D-16, D-40, D-40S

Ecological Value

An important forestry tree. Its rapid growth makes it useful in covering disturbed land, such as mine spoils.

Historical Uses

Native Americans used red alder bark (Alnus rubra) to treat poison oak, insect bites, and skin irritations.

Distribution

Native to California and is also found elsewhere in North America and beyond.

Elevation

Between 0 and 3281 feet

Communities

Mixed Evergreen Forest, Redwood Forest, Closed-cone Pine Forest, Wetland-riparian

Habitat

Riparian