Bareroot Alnus glutinosa (Common Alder)

A hardy native tree particularly valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions where other species struggle. The rounded, glossy green leaves create dense summer foliage that turns yellow before falling in autumn. In early spring, it produces attractive reddish-brown catkins that add interest to the bare branches. Exceptionally useful for stabilising riverbanks and poorly drained areas, its extensive root system helps prevent soil erosion while improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Fast-growing yet relatively compact (reaching 15-20m at maturity), it's ideal for creating windbreaks in exposed locations or planting in challenging urban sites. The dark, fissured bark develops character with age, while the small cone-like fruits persist through winter, providing food for birds. Tolerant of coastal conditions, waterlogged soils, and air pollution, it's one of the most adaptable native trees for difficult planting situations. A superb ecological choice that supports over 140 insect species while withstanding harsh growing conditions.

Family of Trees: Betulaceae

Habit: Deciduous tree

Growth Rate: 40 to 60 cm/year

Optimal Temperature: 10-20°C, hardy to -25°C

Harmful if Eaten?: Non-toxic to Humans and Pets

Flowers or Berries: Yellow-brown catkins, small woody cones

Hardiness: H6 (Extremely hardy)

Hardiness ratings

All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees C) are shown in brackets

○ H1a: under glass all year (>15C)
○ H1b: can be grown outside in the summer (10 - 15)
○ H1c: can be grown outside in the summer (5 - 10)
○ H2: tolerant of low temperatures, but not surviving being frozen (1 to 5)
○ H3: hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK (-5 to 1)
○ H4: hardy through most of the UK (-10 to -5)
○ H5: hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters (-15 to -10)
○ H6: hardy in all of UK and northern Europe (-20 to -15)
○ H7: hardy in the severest European continental climates (< -20)