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Description
Alnus Glutinosa Imperialis, also known as the Imperial Alder, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Betulaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and can grow up to 25 meters in height. The tree has an upright and conical shape and has a moderate growth rate. It is known for its dark green foliage, which turns yellow in autumn. The tree produces male and female flowers in the months of February and March, respectively. The female flowers grow into small cones that contain small and winged seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Alnus |
Appearance
The Imperial Alder has a distinctive appearance. It has a tall, narrow crown that is cone-shaped. The tree’s bark is smooth and grey and becomes rougher as it ages. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped with serrated edges. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow before falling off. The tree produces male catkins that are yellow-green in color and hang down from the branches in February. The female catkins are smaller and grow upright on the branches. The tree produces small cones that are green and turn brown as they mature. The cones contain small, winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
Alnus Glutinosa Imperialis requires moderate care. It prefers moist and well-draining soil and should be watered regularly during dry periods. The tree does not require fertilization, but applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Imperial Alder is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pest is the alder leaf beetle, which can defoliate the tree if left untreated. The tree is also susceptible to aphids, which can cause leaf curling and distortion. The most common diseases that affect the tree are alder dieback and alder decline. Both diseases are caused by fungi and can cause the tree to decline and die.
Habitat
The Imperial Alder is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in wetlands and along riverbanks. It prefers moist and well-draining soil and can tolerate some flooding. The tree is also commonly used in urban landscapes as it is tolerant of pollution.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the growth rate of Alnus Glutinosa Imperialis?
A: The tree has a moderate growth rate.
Q: What are the common pests that affect the tree?
A: The tree is susceptible to the alder leaf beetle and aphids.
Q: What is the tree’s preferred soil type?
A: The tree prefers moist and well-draining soil.
Q: What is the tree’s hardiness zone?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.
Related Plants
- Alnus Cordata
- Alnus Glutinosa
- Alnus Incana
References
- “Alnus Glutinosa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5731/Alnus-glutinosa/Details.
- “Imperial Alder.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/imperial-alder.
- “Alnus Glutinosa Imperialis.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1524/imperial-alder/.
