Alnus subcordata Leaf (28/07/2012, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun
Flowering period: Spring
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 25m
Eventual Spread: 18m
Hardiness: 5a – 9a
Family: Betulaceae
Alnus subcordata is a fast growing, medium sized deciduous tree with a conical habit. Its glossy mid green leaves are opposite, cordate with finely serrate margins, are up to 15cm long and 10cm broad. Its bark is fissured and brown/ gray. Its monoecious flowers are green, the male are catkins, slender and up to 15cm long. The female are small and insignificant.Its fruit is a woody cone like structure which is up to 3cm long. Its roots form an association which enable them to fix nitrogen in the soil.
Alnus subcordata (28/07/2012, Kew Gardens, London)
Alnus subcordata, commonly known as the Caucasian Alder, is native to the Caucasus and temperate Iran. In its native habitat it grows in river valleys and gorges.
The etymological root of the binomial name for Alnus is the old Latin name for the Alder tree. Subcordata is derived from the Latin sub meaning ‘below’ and cordata meaning ‘heart shaped’
Alnus subcordata Bark (28/07/2012, Kew Gardens, London)
The landscape architect may find Alnus subcordata useful in soils which are poor or wet.
Ecologically, Alnus subcordata seed is attractive to some birds.
Alnus subcordata prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil. It will tolerate wet soils.
Alnus subcordata Flower (28/07/2012, Kew Gardens, London)
Alnus subcordata requires little maintenance.
