European Alder
Alnus glutinosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
360"–720" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr
Native to
VT
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
European alder is a large deciduous tree that thrives in wet conditions and poor soils. It grows 30-60 feet tall with a broad canopy and produces small catkins in early spring before the leaves emerge. This fast-growing tree is excellent for erosion control near water features or in boggy areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
European Alder takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Non-native species may violate native landscaping requirements
- Very large mature size can overwhelm residential lots
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may be hard to maintain
Wildlife value
The early spring catkins provide important nectar for bees, beetles, and flies when few other flowers are available. Seeds feed birds like finches and redpolls, while the dense canopy offers nesting sites.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does European Alder fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.