Manchurian alder (Alnus hirsuta)

Manchurian alder

Also known as: Siberian alder

Found in the wild at elevations of 762 m and 1524 m, manchurian alder, is said to be the most drought tolerant Alder and can be transplanted easily. Manchurian alder is used for furniture and as building timber. It also makes for good fuel and charcoal. It has been noted as a nitrogen fixer and utilized to prevent soil erosion.

Scientific classification

Species

Manchurian alder (Alnus hirsuta)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

15 m to 20 m

Plant Height

6 m to 9 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Purple, Brown, Lavender, Gold

Flower Color

Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Images of Manchurian alder

Distribution of Manchurian alder

Distribution Map

Manchurian alder naturally encompasses the temperate regions of northeastern Asia. Over time, manchurian alder has been introduced and successfully cultivated in various other parts of the world. Its presence is notable across broad swathes of other temperate zones, where it often thrives in diverse ecological settings outside its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Temperate forests, streambanks

Quickly Identify Manchurian alder

Ovate glossy green leaves with doubly toothed margins, measuring 2.5 × 5 inches (6.3 × 12.7 cm).

Small woody cones, 3/4 inches (1.9 cm) long with winged seeds, persisting through winter.

Female catkins releasing seeds in fall, male catkins drooping, purplish, up to 4 inches (10 cm) long.

Gray bark with coarse hairs, smooth on the stem, evolving to a medium-sized, deciduous tree.

Distinctive upright form, low canopy, reaching heights around 49 to 82 feet (15 to 25 meters).

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Manchurian alder

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Manchurian alder thrives in moist environments and prefers consistent moisture, requiring watering every two weeks. It flourishes outdoors in natural rainfall conditions, making it ideal for riparian plantings that stabilize soil and manage water runoff.

Fertilize: For manchurian alder, use balanced nutrition fertilizers with high nitrogen during spring and early summer to promote foliage growth. Apply fertilizers bi-annually, following manufacturer instructions to avoid root burn. As manchurian alder matures, reduce fertilization frequency, ensuring to water thoroughly after application for optimal absorption.

Pruning: Manchurian alder is a robust, fast-growing plant with slightly hairy bark. Prune in early spring to stimulate growth and shape effectively. Remove dead, diseased wood, and crossing branches for better airflow. Regular pruning promotes structure, reduces disease risk, and enhances overall health.

Propagation: Manchurian alder propagation involves sowing fresh seeds in well-draining, fertile soil. Stratification may improve germination rates. Provide sufficient light and moisture for seedlings, and acclimatize young plants to outdoor conditions prior to transplanting.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free