Smooth Alder (Alnus serrulata)

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

Alnus serrulata is a deciduous Shrub growing to 4.5 m (14ft 9in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. 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

Moist lowlands, such as swamps, and along ponds and streams where it forms thickets. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)