Black Alder

Ornamental tree used for reforestation and riverbanks. Timber. Riparian specie. The wood is used in turnery, dye and paper making. The leaves under the soles of the feet relieve pains and are a good treatment against sweaty feet. When cooked its bark is used as mouth wash with multiple benefits.

Deciduous tree up to 20m tall with a smooth and glossy bark. The leaves are dark green and remain green until they fall. The flowers are reddish and dark brown. The fruit with the seeds inside looks like a small pinecone.

Prefers siliceous fresh or moist soils, not to be planted in chalky soils. Found in humid areas such as riverbanks.

Dig a hole at least two or three times as wide and deep as the root ball. Take out the plant from the container and loosen roots to allow them to spread out in all direction. Cut possible broken roots. Mix the soil extracted with a substrate and fill part of the hole with the mixture obtained. Place the plant in the hole and cover with the remaining mixture. Compact the soil around the plant and water thoroughly.