Speckled alder
Alnus incana subsp. rugosa
Family: Betulaceae
What it is like
A tall shrub. It grows 10 m tall. The leaves are dull green and thick. They have double teeth around the edge.
Where it is found
It grows along streams and lake shores. It suits hardiness zones 2-6.
Countries/locations it is found in
Canada, North America
How it is used for food
The buds and young catkins are edible but not very tasty. The inner bark can be eaten raw, cooked or dried and ground into flour. It should be aged for a few days before eating.
Edible parts
Buds, flowers, bark