Amur Maackia vs Sitka Alder - TreeTime.ca

Amur Maackia vs Sitka Alder

Maackia amurensis

Alnus alnobetula subsp. sinuata

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Amur Maackia
Sitka Alder

Amur Maackia is a robust and pretty tree often used for urban decoration and landscaping. This tree has coppery peeling bark that can sometimes resemble lace. Its upright clusters of small white flowers usually bloom in midsummer. Amur Maackia's Small size makes it a great choice for small yards or limited space.

Sitka Alder is a native deciduous shrub or small tree that often forms dense thickets. Its extensive root system stabilizes slopes and streambanks. Nitrogen-fixing capabilities and nutrient-rich leaf litter improve soil fertility, creating better growing conditions for surrounding plants. These qualities make it especially effective in disturbed or erosion-prone sites.

Often found in moist, high-elevation mountain environments, Sitka Alder also enhances habitat by providing cover and structure in both riparian and upland areas. Birds and small mammals utilize it for nesting, and its seeds serve as a food source.

Note: We use Sitka Alder for Alnus alnobetula subsp. sinuata. This species is also known by many other common names, including Mountain Alder, Green Alder, and others. Please confirm the scientific name to ensure you are ordering the correct plant.

Amur Maackia Quick Facts

Sitka Alder Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 2a
Height: 8 m (25 ft)
Height: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: wet
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Growth form: upright to prostrate, thicket-forming
Spreading: seed - medium, layering - medium
Suckering: low


Fall colour: brown
Bark: shiny copper colour shedding in curls
Bark: redish-brown to grey, smooth
Flowers: upright clusters of small white flowers
Seeds: wide flat seedpods
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: AB, BC, YT, NT
Other Names: maackia
Other Names: wavy leaf alder