Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Betulaceae

Genus:

Alnus

Species:

Alnus cordata

USDA Symbol:

ALCO13

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Tree

Height:

2500 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

feb,mar,apr

Bloom Colors:

yellowish-brown (catkins)

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:

★★☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★★ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

tolerates poor drainage

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

native to southern Italy and Corsica, often found near water bodies

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds require cold stratification for 30–60 days; sow on moist surface, do not cover.

Where to Buy

Nationwide Seller

• Sheffield's Seed (seeds)