Smooth Alder
Alnus serrulata

Height: 10-20 ft
Spread: 12-15 ft
Bloom Time: February-March
Sunlight: Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Wet

A large multi-stemmed shrub that naturally occurs in moist areas around streams and ponds, Smooth Alder grows around 10 to 20 feet tall. Its flowers are hanging catkins that appear in late winter when most plants are dormant. These later become small cone-like structures with seeds that are used by birds, including Mallards, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Pine Siskins, and Purple Finches. The bark is smooth and grey, and the wide canopy is often utilized by nesting birds.​