Sheffield's Seed Company Page

Introducing Alnus ferdinandi-coburgii—an exquisite ornamental tree revered for its grand stature and historical significance. Reaching heights of up to 65 ft, this upright tree boasts smooth, dark gray bark and distinctive red-brown branchlets. Its lustrous leaves, ovate to obovate-oblong, unfold in a striking purple-bronze hue, adding unique charm to gardens. This rare Chinese alder thrives in temperate regions, adapting well to diverse soil types, making it an exceptional choice for various landscapes. Found in the mountainous regions of China, particularly Guizhou, SW Sichuan, and Yunnan, it flourishes in USDA Hardiness Zone 6.

Discovered by Camillo Schneider in 1914, Alnus ferdinandi-coburgii honors Tsar Ferdinand I of Bulgaria, a passionate botanist. It remains a collector’s gem, showcased in prestigious locations like Howick Hall, the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, and New Zealand’s Eastwoodhill. Its unique features—short, erect peduncles and narrow seed wings—distinguish it from its relatives in the Cremastogyne section. Embrace the legacy of this majestic tree, admired for its stature and historical allure.