Washington Hawthorn vs Red Alder - TreeTime.ca

Washington Hawthorn vs Red Alder

Crataegus phaenopyrum

Alnus rubra

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Washington Hawthorn
Red Alder

Washington Hawthorn is an attractive ornamental shrub that is dense enough to plant as a privacy screen. It produces clusters of white blooms in late spring to early summer.

Washington Hawthorn's red berries last throughout winter, bringing squirrels and birds to your property. In the fall, its foliage turns beautiful orange, scarlet, or purple.

One of the most overlooked trees on the prairies. This tree is often used as rootstock, a wildlife attractor, or a boulevard hedge. Give this one a second look.

This species is also known as one of the more salt-tolerant species for those with saline soils.

Please note: this plant is poisonous to dogs.

Red Alder is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to western North America. Its fixes nitrogen, which enriches soils and supports the growth of surrounding plants. Ideal for sites with poor soil conditions, or areas disturbed by logging, construction or fire.
It provides shade in riparian areas, creating cover for fish. Its seeds and buds are eaten by birds and small mammals, while the foliage provides browse for wildlife. The catkins release clouds of pollen attracting bees and other insects.
The Red Alder gets its namesake from the rusty-red color the bark turns when bruised.

Washington Hawthorn Quick Facts

Red Alder Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 5b
Height: 6 m (20 ft)
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 4 m (12 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: any
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: medium
Life span: medium
Growth form: upright, rounded to conical
Spreading: seeds - medium, stump sprouting - medium
Suckering: none


Fall colour: orange, scarlet or purple
Bark: smooth, grey
Flowers: white flowers in spring
Berries: small, red
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes

In row spacing: 0.9 m (3 ft)

Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
Native to: BC
Other Names: washington thorn
Other Names: oregon alder, pacific coast alder, western alder