American Green Alder
Alnus viridis crispafam. Betulaceae
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Pl. 8DC4 — Alnus viridis crispa
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IOverview
Overview
American Green Alder, scientifically known as Alnus viridis crispa, is a deciduous shrub native to the coastal regions of Japan, Khabarovsk, Korea, Kuril Islands, and Primorye, extending to Sakhalin. This plant thrives in moist or wet conditions with medium to heavy clay soil, making it well-suited for boggy areas. It requires full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones 4-8. Notably, the flowers of American Green Alder are edible, adding a unique touch to culinary creations while enhancing local biodiversity.
Quick answers
What is American Green Alder?
American Green Alder, scientifically known as Alnus viridis crispa, is a deciduous shrub native to the coastal regions of Japan, Khabarovsk, Korea, Kuril Islands, and Primorye, extending to Sakhalin. This plant thrives in moist or wet conditions with medium to heavy clay soil, making it well-suited for boggy areas.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
American Green Alder thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist or wet soil, making it suitable for areas with medium to heavy clay soils. It is hardy in zones 4-8, growing up to 3 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently damp as this alder loves moisture. Propagate via seeds or cuttings. Harvest the flowers for edible use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow American Green Alder for the first time
8steps
Start with American Green Alder as a simple, low-maintenance tree for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A young American Green Alder sapling and some basic gardening tools like a spade and watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining yet moisture-retentive, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. For containers, use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings directly into the garden bed or a large container filled with prepared soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young branches for shaping or remove dead wood as needed throughout the growing season.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without proper drainage, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues to avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The American Green Alder's flowers are edible and can be consumed raw or used in various preparations. They are often picked when fully open and incorporated into salads for a mild, nutty flavor. Skip the detailed recipes; focus on these simple uses instead.
Other uses:DyeTeethNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 6 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)JapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Khabarovsk, Kuril Is., Primorye, Sakhalin
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
7 related
See also
7 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Betulaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Betulaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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