Arnold Hawthorn vs Red Alder - TreeTime.ca

Arnold Hawthorn vs Red Alder

Crataegus arnoldiana

Alnus rubra

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

CUSTOM GROW

Arnold Hawthorn
Red Alder

Arnold Hawthorn is a low-branched tree favored by wildlife and landscapers. This tree's beautiful white flowers and bright red berries make it an attractive ornamental in anyone's yard. Arnold Hawthorn is also used in windbreaks and riparian planting.

Despite its thorns, Arnold Hawthorn is a popular choice of food and shelter for deer and birds. Humans can also eat these berries fresh or preserved, but Arnold Hawthorn will not have high yields until it matures at 5-8 years.

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.

Arnold Hawthorn Quick Facts

Red Alder Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 5b
Height: 5 m (15 ft)
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal
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


Foliage: contains thorns
Fall colour: yellow
Bark: gray to brown
Bark: smooth, grey
Flowers: white
Berries: red pomes about 1 cm in diameter
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: BC
Other Names: oregon alder, pacific coast alder, western alder