Grey Alder (Alnus incana)
Grey Alder (Alnus incana), or speckled alder, is a medium sized tree that reaches heights of 15 - 20 metres.
Useful info about Grey Alder trees
| Latin Name | Alnus incana |
| Type | Deciduous (loses its leaves in winter) |
| Height | Can grow up to 20 metres (65 feet) |
| Spread | The branches can spread out to 4 - 8 metres (13 - 26 feet) |
| Soil Types Preferred | Chalk, Clay, Loam |
| Locations Suitable | Farmland, Gardens, Parks |
| Flowers | Catkins in spring |
| Fruit | Seeds in autumn |
| Celtic Tree Month | March 18 - April 14 |
Similar Species
Description
Grey Alder is a light-demanding, fast-growing tree that grows well on poorer soils.
The bark of the Grey Alder tree is has smooth, grey bark.
The leaves are matte green, ovoid, 5–11 cm long and 4–8 cm wide. The flowers are catkins, appearing early in spring before the leaves emerge, the male catkins pendulous and 5–10 cm long, the female catkins 1.5 cm long and one cm broad when mature in late autumn.
The seeds are small, 1–2 mm long, and light brown with a narrow encircling wing.
Uses
Like other alders, it is able to improve soil fertility fixing nitrogen into the soil with the bacteria Actinomyces alni (Frankia alni).
DISCLAIMER
Any uses for trees or tree extracts, whether edible or medicinal, have not been tried or tested by EFORESTS.
Please take caution and seek proper advice before attempting any recipes or medicinal extracts from any of the trees listed on our site.
Culture and Symbolism
The Grey Alder tree is believed to represent strength, protection and determination.
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