ALDER 19 



where few other trees could survive the Alder grows 

 vigorously, and in damp, low-lying ground produces 

 valuable timber. Under favourable conditions the 

 Alder will attain to a height of 50 feet, with a trunk 

 fully 2 feet in diameter, and some specimens in the 

 south-east district of London have even exceeded 

 these dimensions. The Alder is by no means a 

 long-lived tree, and in old specimens the top branches 

 are often dead or dying. 



A. glutinosa laciniata and the variety imperialis are 

 highly ornamental trees of medium growth, with 

 beautifully divided leaves and valuable as smoke- 

 resisters. For planting by the water margin they are 

 particularly useful. 



The Hoary Alder (A. incana) and the Heart-leaved 

 Alder (A. cordifolid) are good town trees, examples 

 of which may be seen in the private grounds by the 

 lake-side in Regent's Park, as also in the central parks 

 and on Clapham Common. 



From a commercial point of view the Alder is 

 valuable, the timber, which permanently retains a 

 flesh-coloured tint, being largely used in the making of 

 clog soles and in turnery for household articles generally. 



Unlike most other timbers there is no heart wood 

 in that of the Alder, and though lasting but a short 

 time when exposed to the weather it is extremely 

 durable under water, and for that reason has been used 

 for piling and as temporary water pipes. For pattern 

 boards and rake and broom handles the wood is also 

 extensively employed, owing to its lightness and the 

 readiness with which it may be worked. 



Seeds are freely produced, and young trees are 

 readily raised in quantity. The ripe catkins may be 

 collected in October and November, according to when 



