Alnus glutinosa, or European alder, is not recommended to plant, due to invasive tendencies. This species is non-native to Ontario with a natural range in Europe, western Asia, and North Africa, and rarely found in the nursery industry. It prefers moist to wet soils, with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0, with an ideal soil composition being a mix of clay, silt, and sand. It is known to be aggressive and overshadow native trees, altering soil chemistry and biology that makes it challenging for native species to grow. Although it is occasionally planted for soil rehabilitation on degraded sites, it poses a significant threat to wetland and riparian habitats. As an alternative, consider planting Betula papyrifera.
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Planting Site and Native Range
Planting Site
Residential
Management Notes
Management Notes
Known to naturalize or become invasive in certain regions\nShort-lived
Tree Characteristics
Growth Rate
Fast (60cm or more per year)
Width
6 - 12m
Height
12 - 18m
Soil Quantity
11 - 20 m
Leaves
Deciduous
Insects and Diseases
Insects and Diseases
No serious or common issues in the urban environment.
Tree Tolerances
Soil Salt Tolerance
Unknown
Salt Spray Tolerance
Unknown
Flooding Tolerance
High
Drought Tolerance
Low
pH Tolerance
Tolerant of acid to slightly alkaline soil (pH 5.0 to 7.5)