Italian Alder trees-Alnus Cordata Fast growing tree in dry and wet soil conditions. Glossy green leaves with cones and catkins. Smooth grey/green bark.  It was introduced to Britain sometime before 1820. Here it tolerates dryish soils and is therefore less prone to root rot than most other alders.  A lovely and shapely tree distinguished from all other alders by its leaves which are pointed and oval. It's fast growing, sometimes reaching up to 15 metres in just 15 years in Southern England. Alkaline soils and relatively high levels of air pollution are not limiting. It's light demanding and usually wind firm. In addition to enriching soils with nitrogen, Italian alder produces soft timber and high quality pulpwood.