Staghorn Sumac vs Red Alder - TreeTime.ca

Staghorn Sumac vs Red Alder

Rhus typhina

Alnus rubra

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

CUSTOM GROW

Staghorn Sumac
Red Alder

Staghorn Sumac is a popular ornamental shrub with red velvet like antlers that produce seeds that provide nice winter interest for landscapers and gardeners.

This low-maintenance plant is a great addition to any garden it is also used in shelterbelts.

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.

Staghorn Sumac Quick Facts

Red Alder Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 5b
Height: 3 m (10 ft)
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: medium
Growth form: upright, rounded to conical
Spreading: seeds - medium, stump sprouting - medium
Suckering: low


Bark: smooth, grey
Flowers: small, green-yellow
Fruit: small, red
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: ON, QC, NS, NB, PE
Native to: BC
Other Names: stags horn sumach, velvet sumac
Other Names: oregon alder, pacific coast alder, western alder