Alder (Alnus acuminata)

Family: Betulaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Alnus acuminata is an evergreen Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 25 m (82ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Wind. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Grows well on steep mountain slopes at elevations between 1,000 metres in Costa Rica and 3,800 metres in Peru. Common in the mountains, often forming almost pure, dense, extensive stands, but more often associated with oaks and often with pines. (Zone 10)