Common Caragana vs Red Alder - TreeTime.ca

Common Caragana vs Red Alder

Caragana arborescens

Alnus rubra

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

CUSTOM GROW

Common Caragana
Red Alder

Common Caragana is a fast growing shrub that's known for its exceptional hardiness and drought tolerance. Although it's most commonly planted in shelterbelts, Common Caragana is also an excellent hedge or feature shrub.

Note: in warmer areas, this species can be difficult to contain once planted. Use the right plant in the right place.

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.

Common Caragana Quick Facts

Red Alder Quick Facts

Zone: 1b
Zone: 5b
Height: 4 m (13 ft)
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: dry, 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
Maintenance: medium


Bark: smooth, grey
Flowers: yellow, in spring
Fruit: pod like fruits
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes

In row spacing: 0.3 m (1.0 ft)

Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
Native to: BC
Other Names: black karagana, caragana, pea tree, siberian pea shrub, yellow acacia
Other Names: oregon alder, pacific coast alder, western alder