Alder

Species Detail

The Basics

Alder is the major commercial species grown on the western seaboard of the United States and is unique to the hardwood forest resources of North America; one of the few red hardwood species.

Alder is almost white when freshly cut, but quickly changes on exposure to air, becoming light brown with a yellow or reddish tinge. There is no visible difference between the sap and the heartwood, although heartwood is formed only in older or mature trees. The wood of alder is fairly straight grain, somewhat similar in character to cherry, with uniform texture.

Scientific Name

Alnus rubra

Also Known As

Alder, Red Alder, Western Red Alder, Western Alder

Avg. Board Length

Avg. Dried Weight

2.3 lbs/bdft

6’ – 10’

5” – 8”

4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4

Avg. Board Width

Common Thicknesses

Species

Overview

Where It Comes From

Growth

Distribution

Alder trees grow prolifically in the Pacific Northwest under sustainable management. Alder has a relatively short rotation, taking less time to harvest than most other hardwoods. Alder is readily available as kiln dried sawn lumber and often sold under a range of unique grading rules. For grades not listed in the NHLA Hardwood Lumber Grading Rulebook, consult with your supplier.

0-4K

4-8K

8-12K

12-16K

16-20K

20-24K

Volume of live trees on forest land, 1000 m³

Uses

Common

Applications

This prolific hardwood from the Pacific Northwest, with excellent environmental credentials, is used for furniture, kitchen cabinets and interior joinery. It is also used for doors and panelling.