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Description
Alnus Oblongifolia, commonly known as Arizona Alder or Arizona Black Alder, is a deciduous tree species that belongs to the Betulaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and can be found in Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico. The tree can grow up to 40 feet in height and spreads up to 25 feet wide. It is commonly used in landscaping as a shade tree or for erosion control.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Alnus |
Appearance
The Alnus Oblongifolia has a straight trunk with a grayish-brown bark that is smooth when young but becomes rough as the tree ages. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy texture. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring. The fruit of the tree is a small woody cone that contains winged seeds. The leaves of the tree turn yellow in the fall before dropping.
Care Guide
Alnus Oblongifolia requires well-drained soil and full sunlight to grow. It can tolerate partial shade but may not grow as well. The tree prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary for the tree but can be done to promote growth. The tree can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers acidic soil. Alnus Oblongifolia is hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Alnus Oblongifolia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. To prevent infestations, it is essential to keep the tree healthy and well-watered. The tree can also be treated with insecticides and fungicides if needed.
Habitat
Alnus Oblongifolia is native to the southwestern United States and can be found in Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico. It grows in riparian areas, canyons, and mountain slopes. The tree prefers moist soil and can be found near streams, rivers, and springs.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Alnus Oblongifolia grow in full shade?
A: Alnus Oblongifolia can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers full sunlight to grow.
Q: Is Alnus Oblongifolia susceptible to any diseases?
A: Alnus Oblongifolia is relatively disease-free but can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-drained.
Q: How often should I water Alnus Oblongifolia?
A: Alnus Oblongifolia prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. The frequency of watering will depend on the soil type and climate.
Q: Can Alnus Oblongifolia be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, Alnus Oblongifolia is commonly used for erosion control due to its spreading roots that stabilize the soil.
Related Plants
- Alnus glutinosa
- Alnus incana
- Alnus rubra
References
- “Alnus oblongifolia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ALOB2
- “Alnus oblongifolia.” Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:326085-2
- “Arizona Alder.” Arizona State University Arboretum. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021. https://arboretum.asu.edu/pdfs/trees/ArizonaAlder.pdf
