Italian Alder (Alnus cordata)

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

Alnus cordata is a deciduous Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 8 m (26ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf from April to December, in flower in March. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. It can fix Nitrogen.

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

Very rarely self-sown in Britain, but not naturalised. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)