Alnus glutinosa - common alder

Alnus glutinosa, commonly known as the Common Alder, is a hardy native British deciduous tree, well known for thriving in damp ground, along rivers and around lakes. With its attractive rounded crown, glossy green foliage and distinctive catkins and cone-like fruits, it provides year-round interest while offering exceptional value for wildlife.Fresh rounded green leaves emerge in spring, followed by elegant yellow-brown catkins that release pollen early in the season, providing an important food source for pollinators. Small woody cone-like seed clusters remain on the tree throughout winter, adding texture and providing food for birds. In autumn, the foliage turns soft golden-yellow before falling, while the dark bark and branching structure continue to provide winter interest. The Common Alder is a fast-growing, low-maintenance tree that naturally enriches the soil by fixing nitrogen through its root system, making it an excellent choice for improving poor soils. It is highly tolerant of wet conditions, making it ideal for waterside planting, woodland areas, parks and large gardens.