alderwood

Alderwood is a term used to refer to both wood from alder trees and to several place names in English-speaking regions. The word combines alder, the tree genus Alnus, with wood, indicating timber derived from alder species.

Alder wood is typically light in color and soft in texture, with a fine, uniform grain. It is easy to cut, carve, and shape and finishes smoothly. Because of its workability, alder is widely used for furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, paneling, and woodturning. It generally lacks high natural decay resistance, so it is often treated when used outdoors or in damp conditions. Sustainably managed alder forests provide a renewable source for milling.

Geographically, Alderwood is used as a place name in several English-speaking countries. In the United States, Alderwood Manor is a historic community in Snohomish County, Washington, and the nearby Alderwood Mall is a large shopping center in Lynnwood, Washington. Other locales named Alderwood exist as towns, neighborhoods, or street names, particularly in Canada and the United Kingdom. The toponym is typically linked to the presence or cultivation of alder trees in the area.