Seaside Alder, Beach Alder

Alnus maritima

Physical Characteristics

Alnus maritima is a deciduous Tree growing to 9 m (29ft 6in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from September to October, and the seeds ripen in May. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

Eastern and Central N. America - Delaware, Maryland and Oklahoma.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known