Alderträ

Alderträ refers to the wood of alder trees, composed from several species within the genus Alnus in the family Betulaceae. The most common in Europe is Alnus glutinosa (black alder) and in North America Alnus rubra (red alder). Alder trees are typically fast-growing, deciduous, often found in damp soils, riparian zones, and wetlands. They are often used in naturalised plantings.

The wood is light in weight, with a pale sapwood and a light to medium brown heartwood. It has a fine to medium texture and a generally straight grain. It machines well and accepts finishes evenly; it glues, nails, and screws well and takes turnings cleanly. The density ranges around 420-640 kg/m3 (12% moisture content). The wood is relatively easy to work with, and has a moderate resistance to decay, but is not considered highly durable outdoors without treatment.

Alder wood is widely used for furniture, cabinetry, interior joinery, plywood cores and veneers, as well as turned objects and musical instrument bodies (notably some electric guitar bodies). It is favored for its light color and smooth finish. In North America, red alder is highly valued for cabinetry and interior woodwork.

Alder species are pioneer trees that can fix atmospheric nitrogen through root nodules formed with Frankia bacteria, enriching soil fertility and supporting forest recovery. They are commonly used in wetland restoration and streambank stabilization. As a renewable resource, sustainable harvesting and certification programs apply.