Green Alder
Alnus alnobetula
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
36"–120" H × 36"–120" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MA and 14 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Green alder is a medium to large deciduous shrub that forms dense colonies through underground runners. It produces drooping catkins in spring and has serrated oval leaves that turn yellow in fall. This hardy native thrives in cooler, moister areas and can handle partial shade conditions well.
In an HOA neighborhood
Green Alder takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Spreads aggressively through suckers
- Can look unkempt and wild
- May become too large for controlled landscapes
Wildlife value
The spring catkins provide early nectar for bees and beetles when few other food sources are available. Dense branching offers excellent nesting sites and cover for birds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Green Alder need?
- Green Alder grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Green Alder bloom?
- Green Alder blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Green Alder native?
- Green Alder (Alnus alnobetula) is native to CA, CO, ID, MA and 14 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Green Alder attract?
- Green Alder draws bees and beetles.
- Is Green Alder HOA-friendly?
- Green Alder takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Green Alder? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz