Red Alder | Alnus rubra

The image shows a close-up of a tree trunk with a smooth, grayish bark and visible lenticels, set against a green background.
The image shows a cluster of brown, cone-like seed pods hanging from a branch, surrounded by green leaves in a bright setting.
The image shows two overlapping green leaves, highlighting their textures and the slight differences in their shapes.
A sunny pathway lined with lush green trees and grass, creating a vibrant, natural scenery.
The image shows a close-up of a tree trunk with a smooth, grayish bark and visible lenticels, set against a green background.
The image shows a cluster of brown, cone-like seed pods hanging from a branch, surrounded by green leaves in a bright setting.
The image shows two overlapping green leaves, highlighting their textures and the slight differences in their shapes.
A sunny pathway lined with lush green trees and grass, creating a vibrant, natural scenery.

Description

Good species to provide shade and erosion control. Short-lived compared to other decidous trees and prone to falling down when dying.  Consider planting away from structures. More common than white alder (Alnus rhombifolia) in Oregon. Distinguishing characteristic between these alder species is that red alder leaves curl inward on the back of the leaf on the margins (see third photo).

 

Plant Details

Habitat Bottomland forests, riparian forests
Habitat Notes Plant along streams/wet areas.
Phenology Flowering February-April
Mature Height 75’
Shade Preference Full sun
Soil Tolerance Moist soils
Special Uses Attracts insects, bees and butterflies; Attracts birds; Attracts hummingbirds; Grown for timber production