Well-suited to damp and wet soil, this tree is distinguished by its elegant glossy foliage.  Italian Alder (Alnus cordata) makes an attractive, shapely tree.  Its crown is considerably denser than our other alders and its catkins are particularly long and attractive.  A fast-growing tree, planted along with other alder varieties and Willow (many varieties of willow available) and other varieties of alder, the end result will be the creation of an attractive wetland woodland, ideal for wildlife.  Expect a height of 29m (97ft). 

Woodland Design Principles

Typically, this tree is planted in groups of between 10 and 25 trees.  This number of trees is ideal for creating a wildlife habitat and a meaningful source of food and shelter.  Spacing may vary between 1m (3ft 4in) and 5m (16ft 8in).  The aim is to mimic what nature intended and thus avoid artificial lines.  Blending of one species into another is suggested although bearing in mind different growth rates.  Alder and Willow would be fine as they are both fast-growing species.

Rabbit  and Deer Protection

We offer a range of tree shelters that will protect your trees against possible attack.  Click on this Tree Protection Link and it will take you to all of these products. 

Benefits of using our plug plant trees

Our trees are sold as plug plants, in other words the roots are encased in compost. This means that planting can be carried out at any time of the year, provided they are watered in periods of drought, compared to bare-root plants which can only be planted during the plants normal dormant period (November to March).  All of these trees are UK grown, which is important for successful establishment.