Alberta Wild Rose (Prickly Rose) vs Sitka Alder - TreeTime.ca

Alberta Wild Rose (Prickly Rose) vs Sitka Alder

Alnus alnobetula subsp. sinuata

Rosa acicularis

CUSTOM GROW

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Sitka Alder
Alberta Wild Rose (Prickly Rose)

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.

Alberta's provincial flower, Alberta Wild Rose, is a small, deciduous shrub known for its beautiful pink blooms and thick, thorny stems.

Native to Canada, this hardy perennial is an attractive addition to any garden. Wildlife enjoy its edible rosehips, which inclined growers can use in jams, jellies, and rose hip tea.

Sitka Alder Quick Facts

Alberta Wild Rose (Prickly Rose) Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 1a
Height: 5 m (15 ft)
Height: 2.1 m (7 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: any
Moisture: wet
Moisture: normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: medium
Growth form: upright to prostrate, thicket-forming
Spreading: seed - medium, layering - medium
Suckering: medium


Fall colour: bright red
Bark: redish-brown to grey, smooth
Flowers: pink,blooms between May and June. Flowers are both male and female
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, YT, NT
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, YT, NT, NU
Other Names: wavy leaf alder
Other Names: arctic rose, bristly rose, prickly wild rose