A versatile shrub that can withstand a harsh, cold climate. Often seen growing naturally along rivers and lakes in the boreal forest range. Deer resistant and has a moderately fast growth rate. Can identify from other alders or similar species as it has pores or speckles on its branches. This alder has nitrogen fixing properties and is known to help nearby poplars and ash species grow rapidly.

Height : 15-25 feet Spread : 10-25 feet

Light : Full sun to part shade Water : Medium to wet

Soil : Sand, loam Zone : 2-6

Leaves : Leathery, medium green with wrinkled surfaces. Similar appearance to paper birch leaves.

Stem : Bark is reddish grey with white lenticels dotted frequently giving it the “speckled” appearance

Flower : Flowers are monoecious. Male catkins are purplish-brown with yellow pollen. Female flowers are green and are clustered on stalks

Fruit : Catkins that mature in the fall. Female catkins turn into small “cones”

Habit : Course shrub or small tree