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white alder

Scientific Name: Alnus rhombifolia

Family: Betulaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Alnus rhombifolia: The White Alder

The white alder, scientifically known as Alnus rhombifolia, is a deciduous tree native to western North America.

Considerations for Pets

  • This tree produces seeds that ripen from October, and these might be of interest to some animals.

Considerations for Children

  • The bark of the white alder is described as peeling as it ages, potentially creating small pieces that children might interact with.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Alnus rhombifolia Nutt.
  • Common Names: White alder, California alder, Mountain alder, Sierra alder
  • Family: Betulaceae (Birch family)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to western North America, ranging from British Columbia and Washington east to western Montana and southeast to California.
  • Commonly found along streams and in moist canyons, particularly in "the other California," where streams flow consistently.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • A fast-growing deciduous tree, reaching 50 to 75 feet in height (initially grows up to 30 inches per year, slowing down after the first 20 years). Can reach a height of 12 meters (39 feet 4 inches).
  • Has an alternate, simple, deciduous, ovate or oval leaf, 2 to 4 inches in length.
  • Features a tall, straight trunk and an open, rounded crown.
  • Showy in winter with long, golden-colored male catkins.
  • Pale gray bark that peels as it ages.
  • Leaf margins are flat, not curled under (unlike the Red Alder).

Ecological Role

  • Is a commonly occurring species in the western United States. There are no known threats that are or will adversely affect white alder in the wild.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Subject to flatheaded borer infestations (Agrilus burkei).
  • Foliage quality influences larval insects.

Other Information

  • The Plateau Indians used the White Alder for female health issues.
  • Requires close access to the water table (roots within 1m reach of water) and is not drought tolerant.

Further Information

  • Referenced in Fact Sheet ST-72, November 1993 by Edward F. Gilman and Dennis G. Watson.