Alnus Hirsuta

Description

Alnus Hirsuta, commonly known as the Hairy Alder, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Betulaceae family. It is native to North America, and can be found in moist areas such as streambanks, swamps, and wetlands. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and 60 centimeters in diameter. The bark is grey-brown and smooth when young, but becomes rough and fissured with age. The leaves are alternate, oval-shaped, and have a serrated edge. They are dark green and hairy on the upper surface, and pale and hairy on the underside. The flowers are monoecious, meaning they have both male and female reproductive structures on the same tree. The male flowers are yellow-brown catkins that appear in early spring, while the female flowers are small and green, and appear in late spring.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Alnus Hirsuta tree has a unique appearance with its dark green, hairy leaves and yellow-brown catkins. The leaves are oval-shaped with a serrated edge and have a length of 5 to 12 centimeters and a width of 3 to 8 centimeters. They are hairy on the upper surface and pale and hairy on the underside. The bark of the tree is grey-brown and smooth when young, but becomes rough and fissured with age. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and 60 centimeters in diameter. The male flowers are yellow-brown catkins that appear in early spring, while the female flowers are small and green, and appear in late spring.

Care Guide

Alnus Hirsuta is a low-maintenance tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

1. Water: The tree prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
2. Fertilization: The tree does not require much fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
3. Soil: The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.
4. Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
5. Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Alnus Hirsuta tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:

• Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the tree.
• Alder Leaf Beetle: This beetle feeds on the leaves of the tree and can cause defoliation if left unchecked.
• Phytophthora: This fungal disease can cause root rot and crown rot, and can be fatal to the tree.

Habitat

Alnus Hirsuta is native to North America, and can be found in moist areas such as streambanks, swamps, and wetlands. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. The tree prefers full sun to partial shade, and is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Alnus Hirsuta a good shade tree?

A: Yes, Alnus Hirsuta is a good shade tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall.

Q: Is Alnus Hirsuta drought-tolerant?

A: No, Alnus Hirsuta prefers moist soil and is not drought-tolerant.

Q: How often should I water Alnus Hirsuta?

A: The tree prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during dry spells.

Q: Does Alnus Hirsuta attract wildlife?

A: Yes, Alnus Hirsuta can attract wildlife such as birds and butterflies.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Alnus Hirsuta:

• Alnus glutinosa
• Alnus incana
• Alnus rugosa
• Alnus rubra

References

1. “Alnus hirsuta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 17 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287138
2. “Alnus hirsuta.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 17 August 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ALHI
3. “Alnus hirsuta.” The Spruce. Accessed 17 August 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/hairy-alder-alnus-hirsuta-3269683