Smooth Alder, Hazel alder

Alnus serrulata

Physical Characteristics

Alnus serrulata is a deciduous Shrub growing to 4.5 m (14ft 9in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. 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. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Maine to Florida, west to Oklahoma and Indiana.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Secondary; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Diuretic Emetic Ophthalmic Purgative A tea made from the bark is analgesic, astringent, blood purifier, diuretic, emetic and purgative[4, 222, 257]. It is used in the treatment of diarrhoea, the pain of childbirth, coughs, toothache and sore mouths[222]. Externally, it is used as an eye wash and a wash for hives, poison ivy rash, piles, swellings and sprains[222]. A decoction of the cones is astringent[4].

Known Hazards

None known