Alnus glutinosa

Features and care

*Alnus glutinosa*, known as the common alder, is a deciduous tree associated with moist landscapes. Its rapid growth, dense foliage, and the persistence of its small fruiting catkins make it an appealing choice for ponds, rain gardens, and waterside-style plantings.

It forms an initially pyramidal crown—sometimes with multiple trunks—featuring glossy green, rounded or obovate leaves. Male flowers hang in catkins in early spring, while female flowers develop into small, cone-like structures; these mature in autumn and remain visible through part of the winter.

It is planted in full sun or partial shade and can reach a height of 15 to 25 meters. It requires moist—or even waterlogged—soil and a high-frequency watering regimen to maintain constant moisture around the roots. It tolerates humid environments and cold-climate frosts very well, with a USDA hardiness rating of 3–7. Ensuring water availability is a priority during the establishment phase.

At Ornacom we cultivate each specimen directly, guaranteeing a balanced size and abundant flowering from the first years of planting.

Extended species profile

Verified cultivation data, designed so that any visitor can understand at a glance whether the plant is suitable for their climate and garden.

Crop

Exposure

Full sun or partial shade

Irrigation

ORN-WATERING 5/5 · very high — maintain constant moisture; prevent the root ball from drying out.

Soil / moisture

Moist to waterlogged

Bloom

Discreet

Climate

USDA Hardiness

Zones 3–7

Compatible climates

Cfb, cool Cfa, Dfb, Cfc

Tolerance to humid climate

ORN-HUM 5/5 · very high

Maintenance

Development

ORN-ALT 5/5 · 15–25 m · fast growth

Pests

ORN-PLAGA 3/5 · medium — sucking/boring insects and foliar or root fungi; monitor for water stress

Pass

ORN-FEEDING 2/5 · low — prioritize soil and organic matter; fertilize in spring only according to analysis and vigor

  • Warning

Ideal for riverbanks; not suitable for dry climates without irrigation. Can produce abundant seed.

Extended species profile

Verified cultivation data, designed so that any visitor can understand at a glance whether the plant is suitable for their climate and garden.

Crop

Exposure

Full sun or partial shade

Irrigation

ORN-WATERING 5/5 · very high — maintain constant moisture; prevent the root ball from drying out.

Soil / moisture

Moist to waterlogged

Bloom

Discreet

Climate

USDA Hardiness

Zones 3–7

Compatible climates

Cfb, cool Cfa, Dfb, Cfc

Tolerance to humid climate

ORN-HUM 5/5 · very high

Maintenance

Development

ORN-ALT 5/5 · 15–25 m · fast growth

Pests

ORN-PLAGA 3/5 · medium — sucking/boring insects and foliar or root fungi; monitor for water stress

Pass

ORN-FEEDING 2/5 · low — prioritize soil and organic matter; fertilize in spring only according to analysis and vigor

  • Warning

Ideal for riverbanks; not suitable for dry climates without irrigation. Can produce abundant seed.

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