Species Guide
Alder
The Basics
Species Overview
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
Avg. Board Length
6’ – 10’
Common Thicknesses
4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4
Also Known As
Alder, Red Alder, Western Red Alder, Western Alder
Avg. Board Width
5” – 8”
Avg. Dried Weight
2.3 lbs/bdft
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.
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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.
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Cabinets
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Doors
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Furniture
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Musical Instruments
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Panelling
