ALNUS

Genus of about 35 species of deciduous trees and shrubs found throughout the northern hemisphere usually on poor or wet soils.

Alders are pioneer tree species and used for land reclamation. Their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil improves fertility for species following them.

Other uses include firebreaks and for the bodies of Fender electric guitars.

The majority of pilings on which Venice was built was alder wood.

The UK alder, glutinosa, is a useful wildlife plant. Caterpillars feed on the leaves, the flowers provide nectar and pollen for insects, the seeds are eaten by birds, especially redpolls and siskins, and the roots provide holts for otters.