Scientific name: Alnus viridis subsp. sinata (N)

Common name:  sitka alder

Family name: Betulaceae

Useful cultivars and selections:

USDA hardiness zone: 3

Mature height and spread: 20-40 feet tall and 5-10m spread

Form: Rounded, open crown. Multi-stemmed.

Water use: Moderate

Soil requirements: well-drained

Leaf arrangement: Alternate. Simple.

Fall colour: insignificant

Flower/cone/fruit description: Catkin flowers (small in clusters). Semi-woody cone.

Limitations: Pest issues. Windborne pollen.

Suitable uses: Erosion control and reclamation. Very adaptable. Flexible branches therefore good for places with snow.

Quick ID description: Dec. Shrub. Doubly serrate. Alternate. Simple. Zig zag branches. Very thin branches, shallowly lobed and sharply serrated leaves (unique). Very sharp pointy buds that are not on stalks but attached right to stem.