Black alder has a wide natural distribution across temperate areas of Europe, the western portions of Asia, and certain regions of North Africa. Beyond its native range, black alder has been introduced to parts of South America, the Indian subcontinent, and East Asia. In terms of cultivation, black alder is also grown in various locales where it may not naturally occur. While it has established itself in some areas outside its native range, such as North America and New Zealand, black alder is sometimes thought to be a species that may have an impact on ecosystems. Regardless, its cultivation continues, both within its native expanses and beyond.