Content Detail

Seaside alder is a fast-growing native tree. It stays short enough to be used under utility lines, but may be difficult to locate in local nurseries.

  • Family (English) Birch
  • Family (botanic) Betulaceae
  • Planting site City parkway, Residential and parks, Under utility lines, Wide median
  • Tree or plant type Tree
  • Foliage Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
  • Native locale North America
  • Size range Small tree (15-25 feet), Medium tree (25-40 feet)
  • Mature height 20-30 feet
  • Mature width 16-20 feet
  • Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
  • Hardiness zones Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7
  • Soil preference Moist, well-drained soil, Wet soil
  • Drought tolerance Moderately tolerant
  • Other tolerances Alkaline soil, clay soil, Occasional flooding, Wet sites
  • Season of interest early fall
  • Flower color and fragrance Yellow
  • Shape or form Pyramidal
  • Growth rate Fast
  • Planting considerations Intolerant of pollution, May be difficult to find in nurseries
  • Wildlife Nesting birds
  • Has cultivars Yes

More Information

Native Geographic Location and Habitat 

Native to the United States, seaside buckthorn is generally found in wet locations.

Bark Description

Bark is light brown to reddish brown and may be mottled.

Leaf Description

Simple, alternate leaves are oblong to egg-shaped with finely toothed margins.  Leaves are dark green in summer, changing to yellow-brown in fall.

Flower Description

Male and female flowers on the same tree but in separate structures (monoecious). Male catkins flower in fall.

Fruit Description

Fruit are cone-like structures.

Care Knowledge

Plant Care

This species is best in moist to wet sites 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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