Red Alder is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to the western coast of North America, playing a crucial role as a pioneer species in disturbed ecosystems. It is particularly valued in agroecology and regenerative agriculture for its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with Frankia bacteria in its root nodules, enriching the soil for subsequent plantings. Red Alder is integral to ecosystem restoration, providing habitat and food for wildlife, and stabilizing soil on slopes and riverbanks with its extensive root system. In a food forest, it serves as a canopy layer, offering shade and improving soil fertility. Historically, Indigenous peoples utilized Red Alder for its medicinal properties and as a source of dye. It is often paired with other nitrogen-loving plants such as berry bushes and fruit trees in guilds.
Growing Details
Red Alder thrives in moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including poor soils. It prefers full sun and is often one of the first trees to colonize disturbed areas. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and ensure good drainage. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include berry bushes and nitrogen-loving plants. Common mistakes include planting in overly dry or compacted soils. Harvesting
Edible Parts
Inner Bark
Tags
Nitrogen Fixing Keystone Specie Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Bee Friendly Visual Appeal Easy Propagating Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Alnus rubra</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the western coast of North America
applicable geo region: North America
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The inner bark can be dried and ground into a powder to be used as a flour substitute in times of scarcity. However, it is not commonly consumed due to its bitter taste and should be used sparingly.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Red Alder has been used by Indigenous peoples for its anti-inflammatory properties. The bark can be made into a decoction to treat skin irritations, sore throats, and digestive issues. It is important to use the bark with caution as it can be emetic in large doses.
health concerns: The bark should be used with caution as it can be emetic in large doses.
other uses: Red Alder wood is used for furniture, cabinetry, and as a source of charcoal. The bark can also be used to produce a red or orange dye.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Alnus rubra
common names: Red Alder; Oregon Alder; Western Alder
family: Betulaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Alnus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 3.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / -5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(4/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 60 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 25.0 m
max width: 10.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Red Alder thrives in moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including poor soils. It prefers full sun and is often one of the first trees to colonize disturbed areas. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and ensure good drainage. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include berry bushes and nitrogen-loving plants. Common mistakes include planting in overly dry or compacted soils. Harvesting
Potential Disturbances: Red Alder is generally resistant to most pests but can be affected by leaf miners and fungal diseases. Natural pest management includes encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings. Planting garlic or marigolds nearby can help deter pests. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray if necessary.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
Animals Interacting With This Plant
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