Damp Sites

Alder - (Alnus – various) – Typically a pioneer species, they are quick growing, have high seed counts, rapid young growth and a short life span. Alders can grow in the poorest of soils which are prone to flooding. Alders can help to improve soil fertility as they have nodules attached to their root systems which contain a nitrogen fixing bacteria. Often used on poor quality ground as a nurse crop for other species helping to replenish soil fertility. Pollination from male and female catkins is by air in early spring. Once female flowers are pollinated they turn into woody “false-cones” which open in the autumn to disperse seed.

Common Alder

Birch - (Betula – various) – A decidous tree growing up to 30m and flowering between April-May. A monoecious species with male and female flowers on the same tree.  Produces large amounts of seed which is dispersed by the wind.  Able to withstand a wide range of temperatures and soil conditions but grows best on dry acidic sites. Consequently it is found throughout the UK and is second only to Oak in abundance.

Silver Birch

Poplars - (Populus – various) – Closely Related to willows, with alternate deciduous leaves, catkins of male and female flowers on different individuals.

Grey Poplar (Pop aanescens) - A large freely suckering tree reaching 35 m in height. Similar to both White Poplar and Aspen. Considered a native in southern Britain and much of Europe.

Black Poplar (Pop nigra) – Native to much of central and Southern Europe. Now quite uncommon in most wet woodland areas but often planted from cuttings especially in areas around Manchester as it is able to withstand pollution.

Rowan - (Sorbus acuporia) -  Belongs to the genus sorbus and is a member of the rose family.  Grows to a height of 30m and has a lifespan of between 100-200 years.  Commonly found in dry woodlands with a neutral to slighly acidic soil.  Suitable for planting in large gardens or parks as it has stiking autumn berries and does not grow very large.

Willows - (Salix – various)

White Willow – (Salix alba) – A deciduous tree that grows to a height of 25 metres.  Has a narrow silvery-grey crown.  Catkins open April – May.

Goat Willow – (Salix caprea) - A deciduous tree growing to a height of between 12-15 metres.  Quite long lived compared to some broadleafs and can reach an age of between 150 to 200 years.

Goat Willow