Alnus hirsuta - Deciduous - Manchurian Alder Page

Manchurian Alder (Alnus hirsuta) is a robust member of the birch family renowned for its resilience and versatility. Also known as the Siberian Alder, this medium-sized, deciduous, upright tree traces its origins to diverse landscapes - Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Siberia, and the Russian Far East.
With a low canopy and smooth gray bark, the tree stands out with its dark green foliage, while the dangling catkins preceding leaf emergence add a touch of spring charm. The brown cone-like fruits during autumn lend a unique touch. The leaf is a sight to behold - glossy green, ovate in shape, and with doubly toothed margins. The upper surface is subtly hairy, and the underside is downy with a reddish-brown midribs and veins. Upon the arrival of fall, the leaves shift color to a warm yellow, and during winter, they may either drop off or simply wither on the tree.
Serving multiple purposes, Manchurian Alder enhances soil health, curbs erosion and offers shade & shelter. Primarily, the wood becomes a resource for making agricultural tools, furniture, fuelwood, and charcoal. Uniquely, the tree roots add nitrogen to the soil, enhancing its fertility by forming bonds with select micro-organisms.
Manchurian Alder is usually found in higher terrains (2500 to 5000 feet) near small rivers, bogs, springs, or other moist locations at the foot of mountains. Known for its adaptability, it thrives equally well in clay soil, infertile soil, and varying moisture levels, standing out as the most drought-tolerant among all Alders.