Tree of the month: Alder buckthorn
Each month we’re going to bring you a profile of one of the UK native tree species being planted in the Silk Wood Community Planting Project. For November, it’s the alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus).
“Remember, remember, the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason, and plot!”
ow where does the alder buckthorn fit into this seasonal rhyme? Well, did you know that the charcoal of this tree is prized in its use for making gunpowder! In fact, it has a long history as the best wood for this purpose – mainly because the powder grain is fine and burns steadily and evenly. That makes it perfect for timed fuses - a key ingredient when plotting to blow up parliament!
During World War One, the War Office appealed for supplies of Alder buckthorn in Gardeners’ Chronicle because of the halt of the usual supplies from mainland Europe, and shortages during World War Two meant a national survey was commissioned by the Biology War Committee to find wild stocks. This may be why the Alder Buckthorn is widespread, but rare.
Beyond its importance to the war effort, it’s also an important tree for wildlife. It’s the main food plant for the brimstone butterfly – one of the first you’ll see emerge in Spring – and the berries, which turn from red to black, are a valuable source of food for birds such as thrushes. Being a relatively small, bushy tree, it will form part of the understory in the community woodland - providing shelter for nesting birds and small mammals.
So, this November 5th, spare a thought when you watch the fireworks, for the humble alder buckthorn.
“…I see no reason why alder buckthorn, should ever be forgot.”
