Alnus pendula

Cutleaf European Alder

An unusual ornamental alder with a gracefully weeping habit, featuring pendulous branches that create a soft, cascading silhouette. It’s most effective as a specimen tree where its form can be appreciated.

Key features



Width: 20–30 ft



Height: 30–40 ft



Form: Strongly weeping to arching branches



Foliage: Medium green, deciduous



Growth rate: Moderate



Life cycle: Deciduous tree



Growing conditions



Sun: Full sun to part shade



Soil: Moist to wet, adaptable; tolerates poor soils



Water: Moderate to high; well-suited to low or damp sites



Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–7



Landscape use



Specimen or focal tree



Near ponds, streams, or rain gardens



Naturalized landscapes and large properties



Adds architectural interest through form rather than flower



Notes



Alders can fix nitrogen, improving surrounding soil fertility



Performs best with consistent moisture



Allow ample space to showcase the weeping habit



 

Plant type

Deciduous Tree

Height

30'

Width

25'

Hardiness zones

3–7

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Brown

Fall color

Yellow Green

Fruit color

Brown

Soil

Clay, Heavy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Pendulous, Weeping

Bark

Smooth

Drought tolerant

No