The Alder is a native, fast growing, deciduous species that's particularly well suited to wet sites. Its young buds are a bit sticky (hence it's Latin name) but develop into a nice dark, glossy leaf
- & generally where it is grown in wet sites, it keeps it's leaves in autumn for a considerably longer time than most other deciduous species. The other big advantage of Alder is that it's roots fix nitrogen in the soil
- so it enhances soil quality over time & is especially useful in areas with poor soil quality. Alder has slender male, reddish brown catkins & a female fruit which is hard, darker in colour & shaped like a very small pine cone
- these female fruits often stay on the bushes throughout most of winter & look very attractive. Flowers early March-late May. Grows 60cm+ per year. Supplied as 40-60cm bare roots. Fast Growing Wildlife Friendly