Alnus subcordata, the Caucasian alder,[ is a species in the family Betulaceae, prevalent in the Hyrcania woodlands situated in the Caspian Sea Mountains of northern Iran and southeast Azerbaijan.] It is closely related to the Italian alder ( A. cordata) and Alnus orientalis.[
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It thrives across altitudes from sea level up to 2000 meters. This tree exhibits rapid growth in its natural habitat, predominantly river valleys. While it showcases adaptability to a diverse range of ecological conditions, it also demonstrates an ability to flourish in various growth habitats, particularly those at higher elevations.
It is a deciduous tree growing to 15–25 m tall, with similar glossy green cordate leaf 5–15 cm long. The are , the male catkins very slender, 8–15 cm long, the female catkins small, maturing into a woody cone-like fruit 2–3 cm long containing numerous small winged .
Two varieties have been recorded:[
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Alnus subcordata var. subcordata C.A. Mey.
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Alnus subcordata var. villosa (Regel) H.J.P.Winkl
Uses
It is a commercially valuable species with "widespread application in timber and furniture industries".[ It has a calorific value of about 4.6 cal/g.
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