One of Ireland's most traditional and widely distributed trees. Alder woodlands are found in Ross Island, Killarney, Co Kerry and the Gearagh, Co. Cork, while Grantstown wood, Co. Laois is a rare example of wet woodland on an alkaline soil.
In ancient Ireland sections of alder trunks were used as round shields. Later, it was used for making clogs and also in the furniture trade where it was known as 'Irish mahogany'.
Common alder belongs to the genus Alnus and is a member of the birch family (Betulaceae).
The common alder (Alder glutinosa) is a deciduous tree growing to around 30m and flowering February to March.
Lifespan: a short-lived species, around 60 years.
Characteristics
The bark of the common alder is dark and deeply fissured and is often covered in lichen. The tree is frequently multi–stemmed and produces suckers.
Young twigs have a sticky feel (giving the name glutinosa) but older twigs are smooth and hairless. Leaf buds are blunt and purplish in colour.
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