Alnus cordata (Italian Alder)

Alnus cordata (Italian Alder) is a deciduous tree species belonging to the Betulaceae family. It is native to Italy and other parts of southern Europe. The Italian Alder is valued for its adaptability to various soil types and its ornamental attributes.

The Italian Alder is a medium-sized to large tree that typically reaches heights of 50 to 80 feet (15 to 25 meters). It has a conical or pyramidal shape when young, which becomes more rounded with age. The leaves are dark green, leathery, and glossy, with serrated edges. In autumn, the foliage may turn yellow before falling.

One of the notable features of the Italian Alder is its ability to tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including both wet and dry soils. While it can grow in moist or waterlogged areas, it is also adaptable to drier soils once established. This adaptability makes it suitable for a variety of landscape settings.

The Italian Alder is appreciated for its attractive bark, which is smooth and grayish when young, gradually developing shallow furrows and a rougher texture as it matures. The bark adds visual interest to the tree, especially during the winter months.

As an ornamental tree, the Italian Alder is often planted for its aesthetic value. It can be used as a shade tree in parks, gardens, and large landscapes. Its dense foliage provides good canopy coverage, offering shade and creating a pleasant environment.

While the Italian Alder is primarily grown for its ornamental qualities, it also has some ecological benefits. Like other alder species, it has the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through its symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. This nitrogen fixation contributes to soil fertility and supports the growth of other plants in the vicinity.