Rose Glow Barberry vs Sitka Alder - TreeTime.ca

Rose Glow Barberry vs Sitka Alder

Alnus alnobetula subsp. sinuata

Berberis thunbergii Rose Glow

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Sitka Alder
Rose Glow Barberry

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.

Rose Glow Barberry is a cold hardy, drought tolerant shrub. It has attractive, mottled foliage that ranges from red, pink, green, and white, maturing to deep maroon.

Rose Glow Barberry has sharp thorns, so be careful when you're handling this shrub. These thorns are what make Rose Glow Barberry an excellent hedge plant as they deter rabbit and deer.

Sitka Alder Quick Facts

Rose Glow Barberry Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 3a
Height: 5 m (15 ft)
Height: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: short
Growth form: upright to prostrate, thicket-forming
Spreading: seed - medium, layering - medium
Suckering: medium
Maintenance: medium


Bark: redish-brown to grey, smooth
Flowers: pink/purple flower
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


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