Alnus cordata - Field-Grown

Alnus cordata, commonly known as the Italian Alder, is a fast-growing deciduous tree renowned for its elegant, pyramidal shape and heart-shaped leaves. This tree produces small, yellowish catkins in early spring and round, woody cones that persist into winter, adding visual interest throughout the year.

The Italian Alder is a great choice for use as a windbreak, in mixed woodland plantings, or as a shade tree in larger gardens. Its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil makes it particularly valuable for improving soil fertility and supporting surrounding plants. It is also tolerant of urban conditions, making it suitable for city gardens and public spaces.

It complements a variety of garden styles, including formal, woodland, and contemporary gardens. Its structured form and year-round interest make it a versatile addition to many landscapes.

Alnus cordata thrives in full sun to partial shade and is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including poor, compacted, and wet soils. It prefers moist conditions but can tolerate short periods of drought once established.

When planting, space the Italian Alder approximately 5-7 metres apart to accommodate its mature size. This tree typically reaches a height of 12-15 metres with a spread of 6-8 metres.

Field-grown plants are grown directly in open fields, enabling their roots to spread and develop naturally, resulting in larger size, established root systems, and increased resilience. When transporting these plants, hessian, a coarse fabric made from natural fibres like jute, is commonly used to wrap their roots, providing protection during transportation and handling.