California alder
Alnus rhombifolia Nutt.
Alnus rhombifolia, known as California alder, is a native tree species of western North America. It is found from British Columbia and Washington east to western Montana, and south to the Sierra Nevada and Southern California, including the Peninsular Ranges and Colorado Desert oases. This species grows in riparian zones at elevations between 100 and 2,400 metres. It is commonly found in chaparral and woodlands, montane, and temperate forest ecoregions.
Description
Alnus rhombifolia, described by Nutt. in 1842, is a member of the Betulaceae family. It is distributed across British Columbia, California, Idaho, Mexico Northwest, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. The tree is adapted to a range of habitats, particularly riparian zones, and is not currently reported in northern Baja California, though its climatic suitability suggests it may occur there. This species is an important component of the ecosystems in which it is found, contributing to the biodiversity of chaparral, montane, and temperate forest regions.
Other common names
California alderWhite aldermountain alder
Distribution
British Columbia · Global · California · Idaho · Mexico Northwest · Montana · Oregon · Washington
Synonyms
Alnus californicaAlnus rhombifolia var. bernardinaAlnus rhombifolia var. ovalisAlnus rhombifolia var. typicaAlnus glutinosa lus. californica