Black Alder

Alnus glutinosa, Betulaceae

Zones

3–7

Layer

Canopy

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Fast

Guild Roles

Shade ProviderDynamic AccumulatorNitrogen Fixer

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (optimal)Partial Sun (tolerated)

Water

HighHigh

Soil pH

5.5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Garden StrawberryFragaria x ananassa

Nitrogen FixationShade Provision

European PlumPrunus domestica

Nitrogen FixationBeneficial Insect Habitat

Fuji AppleMalus domestica Fuji

Nitrogen FixationBeneficial Insect Habitat

Bartlett PearPyrus communis Bartlett

Nitrogen FixationBeneficial Insect Habitat

Swiss ChardBeta vulgaris var. cicla

Nitrogen FixationBeneficial Insect Habitat

Beach PlumPrunus maritima

Nitrogen FixationWind Protection

Antagonistic Plants

Russian OliveElaeagnus angustifolia

Russian olive can suppress alder growth through root competition and potential allelopathic effects

Black LocustRobinia pseudoacacia

Black locust produces allelopathic compounds that can inhibit growth of other nitrogen-fixing trees, competing for similar ecological niches

Uses

Functions

TimberNitrogen FixationSoil Building

Common Questions

What zones does Black Alder grow in?

Black Alder grows in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 7.

Is Black Alder a nitrogen fixer?

Yes, Black Alder is a nitrogen fixer and can help provide nitrogen to neighboring plants in a guild or polyculture.

What are good companion plants for Black Alder?

Good companions for Black Alder include Garden Strawberry, European Plum, Fuji Apple, Bartlett Pear, Swiss Chard.

Design guilds with Black Alder and see companion relationships visually.

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