Content Detail

European white alder is a fast-growing tree that may be considered as a street tree. Early spring flowers are interesting, but not really showy.

This tree may be difficult to find in local nurseries.

  • Family (English) Birch
  • Family (botanic) Betulaceae
  • Planting site City parkway, Residential and parks, Wide median
  • Tree or plant type Tree
  • Foliage Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
  • Native locale Non-native
  • Size range Large tree (more than 40 feet)
  • Mature height 40-60 feet
  • Mature width 20-40 feet
  • Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
  • Hardiness zones Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago)
  • Soil preference Moist, well-drained soil, Wet soil
  • Drought tolerance Moderately sensitive
  • Other tolerances Alkaline soil, Wet sites
  • Season of interest early winter, midwinter, late winter
  • Flower color and fragrance Inconspicuous
  • Shape or form Oval, Pyramidal
  • Growth rate Fast, Moderate
  • Transplants well Yes
  • Planting considerations May be difficult to find in nurseries
  • Wildlife Large mammals, Small mammals, Songbirds
  • Has cultivars Yes

More information

Native Geographic Location and Habitat

European white alder is native to Europe and commonly found in moist sites.

Bark Color and Texture

Light gray bark is smooth and marked with elongated lenticels.

Leaf Description

The oval leaves are 2 to 4 inches long and alternately arranged. The edges of the leaves are doubly-toothed. The upper leaf surface is dull green and the lower surface is grayish. Leaves have little color change in fall.

Flower Description

Male flowers hang in dangling catkins, are yellow-red, and bloom in early spring before leaves appear.  Female flowers are small, pink, and egg-shaped.

Fruit Description

Fruit are cone-like structures.

Care Knowledge

Plant Care

This species is best grown  in moist soils and is able to tolerate short-term flooding.

Pests, Diseases, and Tolerances

Potential problems include canker diseases, alder aphids, and leaf miners.

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