7-26-11: Alnus rubra

Red alder is a common West Coast native tree often seen along stream banks and wet swales and in disturbed areas like clear cuts or road edges.

It is the first tree to grow after a burn or clear cut. Disturbed land is necessary for reseeding of alder. The symbiotic relationship of alder and the bacterium called actinoycete fixes nitrogen in the soil preparing it for the next succession of plants, often fir trees. Alder is a fast growing tree and can be grown in urban garden as long as it is planted well away from drain pipes, sewage pipes and waterlines. It has bright green leaves and a pale bark, the under bark is a red orange color, thus the name. Alders grow 40 to 50 feet tall; the tallest one is growing in Clatsop Co Oregon and is about 100 feet tall. Alder needs water and sun and may be planted with willow, red twigged dogwood, Oregon ash and big leaf maple. It is choice wood for firewood and smoking salmon. Consider this easy to grow native in your garden.

Pleasant Hill Nursery is pleased to offer:

Alnus rubra available in #1's & #25's: Call for Prices & to Check Availability

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