European Black Alder, Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn., is an invasive tree that is also known as Black Alder or European Alder. It is a member of the Birch (Betulaceae) family.

European Black Alder is native to Europe and western Asia, where it is often used as firewood, as a papermaking and particle board fibre and in joinery. It was introduced to North America by early settlers for use as a windbreak, for landscaping and as a firewood species. It is still occasionally planted deliberately for soil rehabilitation in degraded sites. It was probably first brought to North America in the late 19th century. European Black Alder is a threat to wetland and riparian species and habitats in Ontario. Its aggressive and rapid growth shades out native tree species. It is a nitrogen-fixing plant, meaning it converts atmospheric nitrogen and adds it to the soil through its roots.

For more information on European Black Alder, download our Best Management Practices and Technical Document using the link below:

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