Overview & Description
The Green Alder (Alnus viridis crispa) is a hardy, native deciduous shrub or small tree valued for its resilience and ecological benefits. Its coarse, finely toothed, oval green foliage provides a lush texture throughout the growing season. In spring, it produces inconspicuous yellow-green to brown blooms, followed by reddish catkins that add subtle seasonal interest. As a nitrogen-fixing species, it enriches poor soils, making it an excellent choice for land reclamation and challenging sites.
Growth & Size
This variety exhibits an upright, multi-stemmed, suckering growth habit. It is a fast-growing shrub, typically reaching a mature size of about 10-20 feet in height with a spread of 5 feet. Its thicket-forming nature makes it ideal for stabilizing banks and slopes.
Additional Notes
It blooms in spring. Exceptionally hardy to Zone 2, it is highly adaptable, tolerating dry, rocky soils while thriving in wet conditions. An outstanding choice for reclamation projects, erosion control, windbreaks, wildlife habitat, and naturalized landscapes.
