Colour
Durability
Density in kg/m3
The TreeA small to medium-size tree, attaining a height usually between 15m and 27m and a diameter of 0.3m to 1.2m. It enjoys damp situations along streams, and reaches its best development when growing in moist loam upon which rain has washed down layers of humus from woods at higher elevations.
The TimberThere is no distinction by colour between sapwood and heartwood, the wood being a dull, light reddish-brown colour, without lustre, soft. and light in weight, about 530 kg/m3 when dried.
DryingThe timber dries fairly rapidly with little degrade.
StrengthIt has no reputation for strength, being comparable to poplar in general strength properties, although a little harder and rather more resistant in shear.
Working QualitiesMedium to good - Easy to work and finish provided tools are kept sharpened. It takes glue, stains and polish, and nails and screws satisfactorily. and is a fairly good turnery wood.
Latin NameAlnus glutinosa
Also known asCommon alder, black alder (UK), aune (France), els (Netherlands), erle (Germany)
Wood TypeHardwood
TreatabilityEasy
MoistureSmall
TextureFine
OriginScandinavian countries, North Russia, British Isles, North Africa, Western Asia
Sourcing timber
The TDUK Wood Species Database provides practical information on wood species currently or recently available in the UK market.
Before importing any species listed, you must carry out due diligence to ensure compliance with environmental, social and legal standards, including CITES – the international agreement protecting endangered species.
When buying from existing stock, always source through a TDUK member, who will have completed the required due diligence, including CITES checks.
If a species is no longer commercially available, TDUK members can advise on legal, sustainable alternatives that match desired characteristics such as colour, appearance or density.
