Western Mountain Ash vs Red Alder - TreeTime.ca

Western Mountain Ash vs Red Alder

Alnus rubra

Sorbus scopulina

CUSTOM GROW

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Red Alder
Western Mountain Ash

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.

Western Mountain Ash is a popular ornamental tree native to the western part of North America. Its attractive, white clusters of flowers bloom in early summer, making way for red, yellow or orange fruit in the fall. If the fruit doesn't catch your eye, Western Mountain Ash's autumn colours will capture your–and the birds's–attention.

Red Alder Quick Facts

Western Mountain Ash Quick Facts

Zone: 5b
Zone: 2a
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Height: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 6 m (20 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: medium
Growth form: upright, rounded to conical
Spreading: seeds - medium, stump sprouting - medium
Suckering: none


Bark: smooth, grey
Flowers: white
Berries: bunches of orange-red berries appear in late summer
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: BC
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, YT, NT
Other Names: oregon alder, pacific coast alder, western alder
Other Names: cascade mountain ash, greene mountain ash