Botanical Name

Alnus glutinosa Gaertn., Alnus nigra Gilib., Alnus vulgaris Pers. (Fam. Betulaceae)

Trade Names

Gemeine Erle, Schwarzerle, Ontano nero, Alno ontana, Black alder, Common alder, Aune commun, Aulne noir, Vergne, Elzen

Substitution

colored as compensation of Walnut and Mahogany.

Indigenous to

throughout Europe, Siberia and North Africa

Characteristics

The sapwood and the heartwood are not distinguishable. The wood is reddish-white to yellow-red, it rapidly turns darker under the influence of air and light. Annual rings and growth layers are only slightly visible. The structure usually is straight grained. Spiral grain is seldom, the texture is rough and constant. Kept dry, the wood holds up well.