Deciduous tree with small cones

Many alder species have cone-like fruits

Alder trees (Alnus) are closely related to birch trees (Betula) and are found mainly in wetlands and on the banks of rivers, streams and other bodies of water. Only the black, green or white alder are native to Germany, although the latter is sometimes referred to as gray alder in the literature. In gardens with a larger garden pond or another body of water, however, non-native species such as the emperor alder or the heart-leaved alder are often planted. All species develop cone-like, quite small fruits.

Black alder

The black alder (Alnus glutinosa) is one of the pioneer tree species fast growing and quickly conquered fallow land and damp outlying areas. Older trees are easy to recognize by their black-brown, torn bark.

White alder

The gray or white alder (Alnus incana) is very similar to the black alder in terms of its habitus, habitat and way of life, but the bark is significantly lighter. It is also far less common than the black alder.

Heart-leaved alder

In contrast to the native species, the heart-leaved or Italian alder (Alnus cordata) is popular in gardens planted. The tree, which can reach a height of around 20 meters, has leathery leaves that are heart-shaped and glossy dark green at the base.

Purple alder

The Späths alder or Purple alder (Alnus x spaethii) is a popular tree for gardens and parks that can reach heights of up to 15 meters. Its leaves, which are up to 18 centimeters long, are brownish purple when they shoot, dull, dark green during the summer months and purple-red when the autumn color sets in late.

Emperor Alder

The emperor alder (Alnus glutinosa 'Imperialis') is a cultivated form of the black alder and develops into a loosely structured tree up to ten meters high with overhanging branches. The delicate leaves are provided with three to four narrow, deeply incised lobes on each side.