Hirsuta Alder (Alnus hirsuta)

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

Alnus hirsuta is a deciduous Tree growing to 18 m (59ft 1in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from March to April. 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. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor 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

Mountains and hills all over Japan. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)