Red Alder (Alnus rubra)

This hardy tree is native to the coastal regions of North and West America, where it is usually seen growing next to Douglas fir and Sitka spruce. British Columbia is the origin of red alder, a tree that grows extremely quickly. In America, red alder wood is prized for furniture, but in Britain, it is rarely used to make boards large enough.

Red Alder is also a great tree for erosion control on slopes and other elevated areas. This is due to its roots containing nitrogen-fixing nodules which add nitrogen into the surrounding soil. Making it an ideal tree to plant for conservation purposes. It is also a great species for costal gardens. Red Alder also acts as a source of food and shelter for a very diverse range of wildlife including 200+ species of caterpillars.

Tree attributes

Requires little pruning
Grows very fast
Can grow upwards of 20 metres
Early pollinator for bees
Adds nitrogen to soil