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.
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 Green Alder fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.