tree

Italian alder

Alnus cordata

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Italian alder (Alnus cordata) — a tree, for Full sun, Medium water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lighthigh
Watermoderate to high

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomasshigh
Shademoderate

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceBud break and leaf emergence typically occur after the last spring frost and when air temperatures consistently rise above 5 °C.
floweringFlowering occurs in late winter to early spring, typically in February, as days begin to lengthen.
fruitingFruits (small cones) develop over the summer, maturing approximately 6 months after flowering.
senescenceLeaves begin to senesce and drop with the first autumn frosts and as day length shortens.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained to moist
Nitrogen fixingYes
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatesnitrogen, calcium
Soil textureloam, clay, sand
Organic matterHigh
Compaction toleranceMedium

Propagation

Methodsseed, cuttings
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~2 yr
Stratificationcold_moist
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionnot applicable

Wildlife & pests

Attractspollinators, beneficial insects
Can host diseasesalder blight, canker