Grey Alder Tree | Alnus incana
A champion for wildlife
Grown by Mike
Roots' Cotswolds Valley Nursery
2 Year Old Tree in a 9L Pot
120-150cm inc. pot on arrival
Choose your size
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Currently out of stock
Plant diary
- Flower
- Harvest
Grey Alder Tree
Alnus incana
- Alnus incana or grey alder is a large deciduous tree native to Europe but now common in Britain, notable for its tolerance of poor growing conditions and its benefit to wildlife
- Shiny ovate leaves and pollinator-attracting yellow-brown catkins in February followed by characteristic long lasting hard-green fruits that sustain birds in the winter.
- A steady grower that can end up 20 x 10m after 20 years.
- Possesses rare nitrogen fixing ability allowing it to both grow in and restore poor, dry soils.
- Our trees are professionally pruned before dispatching.
What to expect
Supplied as
Height on arrival
Eventual height
Eventual spread
Habit
Will this grow in my garden?
Can I grow this in a pot?
While possible in a very large container (80cm+) initially, Grey Alder Tree is a large, vigorous tree and is not suited to long-term pot cultivation. It should be planted in the ground after 1-3 years.
How big does it get?
The Grey Alder Tree typically reaches a height of 15 to 20 metres, with a spread of 8 to 10 metres, although it can be maintained at a smaller size with regular pruning.
How much sunlight does this need?
Grey Alder Tree prefers full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive.
What kind of soil does this plant prefer?
Grey Alder Tree prefers moist to wet soil and can thrive in poorly drained areas. It is very hardy and can tolerate soil temperatures down to -15°C. A 5cm to 10cm layer of mulch helps retain moisture.
How much watering does this plant need?
Grey Alder Tree is a thirsty plant that requires frequent watering, needing approximately 20 to 30 litres per week. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to wet, and water generously when temperatures exceed 20°C.
Will this plant need pruning?
Grey Alder Tree should be pruned in late winter or early spring while dormant.
How hardy is this plant?
Alnus incana is exceptionally hardy with an RHS rating of H7, surviving temperatures colder than -20°C in severe climates.
The wider garden
Roots' Cotswolds Valley Nursery
Meet Mike
Tree-growing skills honed right across the globe
Having started out in Australia, studied in Northern Ireland and volunteered at an organic farm in Sweden, it’s fair to say Mike’s done his fair share of travel on his horticultural journey, so far! Having happily laid down roots here at Roots, Mike is the don behind our tree-growing operation, imparting each and every one of his globally-honed skills to benefit your garden. Grown in our purpose-built nursery, in the ideal climatic conditions of the fertile Vale of Evesham, we’re proud to supply only the happiest, healthiest and hardiest trees.
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