Nannyberry vs Red Alder - TreeTime.ca

Nannyberry vs Red Alder

Viburnum lentago

Alnus rubra

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

CUSTOM GROW

Nannyberry
Red Alder

Nannyberry is a hardy shrub known for attracting wildlife. Its clusters of white flowers and tasty berries are suitable for bees, birds, and other animals.

Nannyberry is also used in urban yards and landscaping. This shrub makes a beautiful ornamental and is small enough to grow underneath power lines. Its berries can be eaten fresh or used in baking and preserves.

Makes a great hedge or privacy screen in an urban yard. Often has great red fall color to complement its spring flowers.

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.

Nannyberry Quick Facts

Red Alder Quick Facts

Zone: 2b
Zone: 5b
Height: 5 m (15 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: any
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: medium


Bark: gray and scaly
Bark: smooth, grey
Flowers: white
Berries: red to purple
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: SK, MB, ON, QC, NB
Native to: BC
Other Names: sheepberry, sweet viburnum
Other Names: oregon alder, pacific coast alder, western alder