Alnus subcordata, the Caucasian alder, is a species in the family Betulaceae, native to Hyrcanian forests of Iran and the Caucasus. It is closely related to the Italian alder (A. cordata) and Alnus orientalis.It is a deciduous tree growing to 15–25 m tall, with similar glossy green cordate leaves 5–15 cm long. The flowers are catkins, the male catkins very slender, 8–15 cm long, the female catkins small, maturing into a woody cone-like fruit 2–3 cm long containing numerous small winged seeds.Two varieties have been recorded: Alnus subcordata var. subcordata C.A. Mey. Alnus subcordata var. villosa (Regel) H.J.P.Winkl
The Caucasian elder has strong resistance to disease and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Caucasian eldert is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not demand much prior care experience.
How to keep Alnus Subcordata.
Light
Caucasian elder is native to open habitats, including sunlit meadows and forest margins that offer abundant light. It performs best in Full Sun but will also tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to a range of light conditions.
Temperature
Caucasian elder is highly adaptable to a range of climate conditions, from scorching summers to chilly winters. However, it has an optimal temperature range for growth. If temperatures become too high, the plant is vulnerable to heat and humidity stress, which can cause its death. In areas where temperatures approach the lower limit of its cold tolerance, it's important to use insulation measures to protect the plant.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your Caucasian elder in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding boosts overall health, leading to vigorous growth, greater tolerance of challenging conditions, and enhanced resistance to pests and diseases. Stick to a specific fertilization schedule for your Caucasian elder to maintain foliage that is vibrant, richly colored, and lush in appearance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Alnus
- Family
- Betulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-8
- Mature Height
- 14.94 m to 24.99 m
- Mature Spread
- 7.92 m to 11.89 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Forest Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Yellow, Brown
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late winter, Early spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Iran, Azerbaijan
Other names.
