Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final size6 x 4 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen feathery leaves turns yellow in Autumn
SoilWet-tolerant
Description
Alnus glutinosa ‘Imperialis’, commonly known as the Cut Leaved Alder tree makes a beautiful, slender tree with finely cut, feathery green foliage. The foliage is a wonderful feature giving the tree a slightly oriental appearance. Catkins appear in spring and false cones follow, which are popular with the birds. Yellow autumn colours make this, the smaller of the Alnus varieties, a very attractive tree for smaller gardens.
Ideal for difficult sites, Alnus glutinosa ‘Imperialis’ thrives in wet conditions and is able to tolerate exposure. A height and spread of 6 x 4 metres can be expected in 20 years. An additional quality of Alder trees is that they host nitrogen fixing bacterium beneath the soil which improves the fertility of the soil.
AKA Cut Leaved Alder, Alnus glutinosa Imperialis
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
