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Grey alder (GAR)

Grey alder is one of approximately 35 species in the genus Alnus growing in northern temperate forests with a few in central and southern America. Grey alder has between four and six sub-species (depending on taxonomic authority) with a wide range from central Europe across Russia to north-eastern America. All alders have a symbiotic relationship with Actinomyces alni (syn. Frankia alni) a bacterium that produces nitrogen fixing nodules on the roots. This ability offers alders, in general, a place in establishing trees on challenging sites, assisting in forest diversification in conifer plantations and as a nurse for more demanding species. Apart from its specialist role on reclaimed sites and as a nurse with other broadleaved species, this is likely to remain a minor species in British forestry. Grey alder is categorised as a Secondary tree species. These are species that demonstrated positive silvicultural characteristics in trial plots but gaps in knowledge constrain wider use. The species are being actively evaluated to increase understanding and inform future deployment.

Meeting Notes – 20th February 2024

Meeting notes from 20/02/2024

Hybrid larch (HL)

Hybrid larch is a cross between European larch (L. decidua) and Japanese larch (L. kaempferi). It carries characteristics of both parents, but growth rates show typical hybrid vigour growing faster than both. Often called the Dunkeld larch after the site it was thought to have first occurred it has now been renamed as it is now thought to have first crossed in Switzerland. A species which could be used to replace Sitka spruce on sites vulnerable to drought in eastern Scotland, but only if guaranteed hybrid material is available. However its use now and in the future is under review with the continuing impacts of the disease Phytophthora ramorum affecting planting potential in much of Britain. Hybrid larch is categorised as a Principal tree species. These are tree species where silvicultural knowledge provides confidence to enable successful deployment across Britain. The species are either already widely used or are increasing in usage. They will continue to be important unless affected by a new pest or disease or become adversely affected by climate change.

European larch (EL)

European larch has been widely planted in Britain but not to any great extent with Japanese and hybrid larch preferred. There are two recognised varieties: L. decidua var. carpatica (Carpathian Mountains) and L. decidua var. polonica (hills on the Polish plains). The latter is listed as endangered by the IUCN. This species has the potential for future expansion on the right sites, but its current position is unlikely to alter with projected climate change. However its use now and in the future is under review with the continuing impacts of the disease Phytophthora ramorum affecting planting potential in much of Britain. European larch is categorised as a principal tree species. These are tree species where silvicultural knowledge provides confidence to enable successful deployment across Britain. The species are either already widely used or are increasing in usage. They will continue to be important unless affected by a new pest or disease or become adversely affected by climate change.

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Expanding Agroforestry: A Tree Species Guide for Agroforestry in the UK

This ‘Tree Species Guide for UK Agroforestry Systems’ provides an overview of 33 species of trees and shrubs that could be planted in UK agroforestry systems.

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Phytophthora ramorum and the future for larch in Wales

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Steph Wood