alder
Pioneer species and nitrogen
fixing: it can improve the soil it lives in. Prefers wetter areas and helps stabilise riverbanks and support a wide range of wildlife Its wood is strong and durable under water. Was used in the construction of boats, sluice gates and water pipes. Now used to make timber veneers, pulp, plywood and Fender electric guitars.
When cut, the pale wood turns orange, as though bleeding. As such it was seen as unlucky to pass on on a journey.
In fairy magic, it is the secret door from one realm to another.
Said to protect the heart and chest.
GREY ALDER:
Wood is light and porous - good for paper production and charcoal.
Also ‘King of the Waters’ favoured tree of the Druids and sacred to the God ‘Bran’. Used as both a tonic and astringent and in traditional remedies for rheumatism.
ITALIAN ALDER:
More drought-tolerant than other alders and often planted as windbreaker. Its wood is used for turning and carving and furniture production.
In Italy, alder sap was mixed with that of the madder plant to produce red dyes. The wood was also used to light fires for the spring festival at Ostara.
