Alnus cordata is characterized by its shining, heart-shaped, green leaves and quick-growing, upright form. It can grow in both moist, swampy soils and dry, infertile soils, making it useful for erosion control and windbreaks. It is an excellent option for use as a street or shade tree. During the early to mid-spring months, it produces yellow-green catkins that serve as a source of pollen for bees. Furthermore, Alnus cordata can fix nitrogen in the soil, which is beneficial for improving soil conditions for other plants. Alnus cordata is deciduous and native to the southern Apennine Mountains in Italy (Campania, Basilicata and Calabria, mainly on western mountain sides) and the north-eastern mountains of Corsica. Learn more about Alnus cordata.