Falsebox vs Red Alder - TreeTime.ca

Falsebox vs Red Alder

Paxistima myrsinites

Alnus rubra

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Falsebox
Red Alder

Falsebox is a native evergreen shrub found in forests, slopes, and rocky sites. Its greenery adds winter interest and provides cover to wildlife. It is used to provide ground cover, especially under established trees.

It provides shelter for small animals and birds and its inconspicuous flowers support pollinators. It is long-lived and tolerant of a range of conditions, including drought once established.

Falsebox is well suited for naturalisation projects, erosion control, wildlife gardens, and low-maintenance landscapes. It is a practical addition to restoration plantings and mixed shrub communities.

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.

Falsebox Quick Facts

Red Alder Quick Facts

Zone: 5a
Zone: 5b
Height: 0.5 m (1.5 ft)
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 0.5 m (1.5 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Light: any
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: fast
Life span: medium
Life span: medium
Growth form: prostrate to spreading
Growth form: upright, rounded to conical
Spreading: layering - medium
Spreading: seeds - medium, stump sprouting - medium


Foliage: evergreen, leathery leaves
Bark: reddish-brown
Bark: smooth, grey
Flowers: small, maroon-purple, fragrant
Bloom time: summer
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: AB, BC
Native to: BC
Other Names: false box, mountain boxwood, mountain lover, myrtle boxwood, oregon boxleaf, oregon boxwood
Other Names: oregon alder, pacific coast alder, western alder