Common alder (Alnus glutinosa) as a forest tree in Ireland

Abstract

Common alder is a very hardy species found in all parts of Ireland on a wide range of sites, from sheltered mountain sides to lake shores and river banks to wet sandy soils and gravels. Its occurrence increases in the higher rainfall areas of the west and southwest. Even though flushing occurs early, common alder does not usually suffer from late spring frosts and is hardy to early autumn frosts. It makes a useful shelterbelt tree and is moderately resistant to salt spray (Savill 1991).