Andes alder - Alnus acuminata

Description and Uses

Alnus acuminata (Andes alder) is a tropical tree from Andes. It is mainly grown for its conservation crops (short shelflife), but also

can be produced. The crop is harvested by total removing. It starts flowering after 4 - 6 years.

. Medical uses include;

The contains ( - ). Regarding firewood production the tree`s growing speed is fast, its energetic value is 4600 ckal/kg and the wood`s drying speed is ; for firewood production it is not ideal. After 9 years the tree can be totally removed as it reached its commercial and ecological goal. Alnus acuminata has a lifespan of 50 years.

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Environmental limitations

The tree is 30 meters tall. It is fast growing and tolerates not less light than partial shade. Alnus acuminata has a shallow root-system and forms symbiotic relations

(endo and ecto mycorrhiza). It is able to fix nitrogen with Enterobacteriaceae bacteria.

Alnus acuminata thrives in an altitude of 1200 to 3800 meters above sea-level (tropical). The minimum temperature is -2°C and optimally between 17 - 24°C. The optimal rainfall is 2500 mm/year. Without irrigation the annual rainfall should be between 1000 - 3000 mm (L/m²). The optimal soil-pH is between 5.0 - 6.0 in a soil texture of loam.

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Pests and Diseases

and

diseases.

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Seed Propagation

There are approximative 2000000 seeds/kg. Unfortunately propagation instruction is missing.

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