WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
Common Alder
Alnus glutinosa
Also known as: Black Alder, European Alder
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 590 lbf (2,624 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 530 kg/m³ (33 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.42
- Type
- Temperate hardwood
- Grain
- Straight
- Texture
- Fine and even
- Durability
- Non-durable above ground, very durable when submerged
- Region
- Europe, Asia
- Sustainability
- Sustainable — Sustainable with good regeneration, widely cultivated
Overview
Common Alder is a medium-density temperate hardwood native to Europe and western Asia, valued for its workability and affordability. It is commonly used in turnery, plywood, and furniture making. The wood darkens attractively with age and is remarkably stable when submerged, as demonstrated by Venice built on alder pilings.
The heartwood is pale reddish-brown to light brown with minimal distinction from sapwood. It has a fine, even texture with straight grain. Dried weight averages 530 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 590 lbf. Moderately stable and easy to work, with uniform density throughout.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low - soft wood, easy on edges
Gluing
Good gluing properties with most adhesives
Finishing
Takes stains and finishes well, darkens with exposure
Steam Bending
Good steam bending characteristics
Scent
Mild odor when worked, sawdust used for smoking
Assessment
Strengths
- Good workability
- Affordable
- Stable when submerged
- Darkens attractively with age
Weaknesses
- Low durability above ground
- Relatively soft
- Limited strength
Common Uses
Turnery · Plywood · Furniture · Carving · Clogs · Submerged construction