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Red alder

Alnus rubra (red alder) is a deciduous broadleaf tree in the Betulaceae (Birch) family native to western North America. Red Alder is the largest species of alder in North America and one of the largest in the world, reaching heights of 20-30 meters. The official tallest red alder (1979) stands 32 meters tall in Clatsop County, Oregon (USA). The name derives from the bright rusty red color that develops in bruised or scraped bark. The bark is mottled, ashy-gray and smooth, often draped with moss. Large trees are often unbranched for a considerable distance from the ground. Description from Calscape

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Red alder

Red alder fast facts

Scientific Name

Alus rubra

Family

Betulaceae

Garden Type

Anywhere

Wildlife

Birds

Native Plant Region

Western WA, PNW, North America

Light needs

Full Sun

Water Needs

Dry

Plant Type

Deciduous, Perennial, Tree

Bloom Color(s)

Yellow

Height

10 + feet

Width

10+ feet

Months in Bloom

April

Safe Beneath Power Lines?

No
red alder

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