Alnus nitida aka West Himalayan Alder

Alnus nitida, the West Himalayan alder, is a large deciduous tree. It belongs to the birch family, Betulaceae. Its native range runs from northern Pakistan through the western and central Himalaya. Records include parts of India and Nepal. It grows beside rivers and streams in a temperate climate. Most recorded sites lie at 1,970–3,940 feet [600–1,200 metres]. Some reach about 8,860 feet [2,700 metres].

This tree can reach about 98 feet [30 metres] tall. Its size suits a woodland canopy rather than a small space. Plants For A Future also lists it for bog gardens. The tree sheds its leaves and flowers in September. Each tree bears separate male and female flowers. Wind carries pollen between the flowers. The supplied species records give no details about leaf shape, bark texture, or fruit.

Choose a damp site with loam or heavy clay. The tree prefers heavy soil and can grow in poor ground. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils. It grows in full sun or light woodland shade. Though it prefers damp ground, it tolerates drier soil than many other alders. Soil microbes form nodules on its roots and fix nitrogen. The tree uses some of this nitrogen. Nearby plants may also gain from it.

Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10 for this species. Its cultivation notes suggest cold tolerance of about 14–23°F [−10 to −5°C]. Those notes warn against outdoor planting in colder areas. Seed offers a way to raise new trees. Sow ripe seed in a cold frame with very little cover. Spring sowing can also work, but leave the seed uncovered. Move seedlings into separate pots once they are large enough. Plant them out when growth is strong enough, or wait until spring.

The bark supplies tannin for dyeing. The soft, even-grained wood serves for furniture and building, though it is hard to cut. A bark decoction has a recorded external use for swelling and body pain. This records a traditional use, not proof of benefit. Plants For A Future lists no known edible uses or hazards. That does not establish safety for eating. The supplied evidence names no species-specific pests or diseases.