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Description
Alnus Alnobetula Subsp. Fruticosa, commonly known as the Dwarf Alder, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Betulaceae family. It is native to Northern Europe, Siberia, and North America, and can grow up to a height of 1-3 meters. The plant has a bushy, spreading habit, with multiple stems arising from a single base. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring and early summer, followed by small, woody cones that persist through the winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Alnus |
| Species | Alnobetula |
| Subspecies | Fruticosa |
Appearance
The Dwarf Alder has a dense, twiggy growth habit with a spreading form. The leaves are alternate and simple, with a glossy, dark green surface and a paler underside. The leaves are oval in shape and have a serrated margin. The bark is smooth and greyish-brown, becoming more fissured with age. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and appear in early spring before the leaves. The plant produces small, woody cones that persist through the winter.
Care Guide
The Dwarf Alder requires well-drained soil that is evenly moist. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is tolerant of a variety of soil types. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 2-7. It does not require fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Pruning is not necessary, but can be done to remove dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dwarf Alder is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by rust disease, which causes yellowing and dropping of leaves. This can be treated with a fungicide. The plant can also be affected by aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Dwarf Alder is native to Northern Europe, Siberia, and North America. It can be found in wetlands, bogs, and along streams and rivers. The plant is tolerant of a variety of soil types and can grow in both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Dwarf Alder be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Dwarf Alder can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should the Dwarf Alder be watered?
A: The Dwarf Alder should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should be kept evenly moist.
Q: Does the Dwarf Alder require pruning?
A: Pruning is not necessary, but can be done to remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Dwarf Alder?
A: The Dwarf Alder is hardy to USDA zones 2-7.
Related Plants
- Alnus glutinosa
- Alnus incana
- Alnus rubra
- Alnus serrulata
References
- “Alnus alnobetula subsp. fruticosa (Pall.) Á. Löve & D. Löve.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
- “Dwarf Alder.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Alnus alnobetula subsp. fruticosa.” Royal Horticultural Society.
