Alnus glutinosa 'IMPERIALIS'

Common alder is a European native plant. There are varieties, however, that are very uncommon and I am not afraid to say exquisite. Such as this variety: Imperialis.

Imperialis alder bears mid-green, deciduous, very deeply cut, 4-8 cm long, narrow leaves that look like tiny witches’ brooms. But I suppose they do not fly. It grows slowly into a large shrub or mid-sized tree which, thanks to horizontal layers of branches, resembles Himalayan cedar from a distance, and its finely cut leaves give it a fluffy look. Such plant needs to be chosen a beautiful place in a garden so you can wholly admire its unusual appearance.

Alders are maintenance-free plants. They thrive in full sun and constantly moist (not wet), medium fertile soil. Pruning can be done in late winter/early spring before the buds begin to swell. Hardy to min. -40°C (USDA zone 3).

Last update 08-01-2012