HAZEL ALDER Meaning and
Definition
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Hazel alder, scientifically known as Alnus serrulata, is a deciduous shrub or small tree primarily found in North America. It belongs to the Betulaceae family and is related to other alder species. The term "hazel" in its common name refers to the shrub's resemblance to the common hazel tree, especially due to the clusters of small, roundish fruits it produces.
The hazel alder typically reaches heights of about 10 to 15 feet, with a spread of 6 to 12 feet. It features dark green, oval-shaped leaves with serrated edges, which turn yellow in the fall. One of the distinctive characteristics of this shrub is its association with wetlands; it is often found near swamps, bogs, or along the edges of streams, where its roots help stabilize the soil. The shrub also has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making it an important member of riparian ecosystems.
In terms of its ecological role, hazel alder provides valuable habitat and food for wildlife. Birds, such as the ruffed grouse and songbirds, are known to consume its seeds and utilize its branches for nesting. The shrub's dense foliage also offers cover and protection for various small mammals and amphibians.
Due to its aesthetic appeal and ecological significance, hazel alder is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes with moist soil conditions. Its ability to thrive in wet environments and its wildlife-supporting qualities make it a valuable addition to natural areas and restoration projects.
Common Misspellings for HAZEL ALDER
- gazel alder
- bazel alder
- nazel alder
- jazel alder
- uazel alder
- yazel alder
- hzzel alder
- hszel alder
- hwzel alder
- hqzel alder
- haxel alder
- hasel alder
- haael alder
- hazwl alder
- hazsl alder
- hazdl alder
- hazrl alder
- haz4l alder
- haz3l alder
Etymology of HAZEL ALDER
The word "hazel alder" is a compound term that combines two separate words with their respective origins:
1. Hazel:
The word "hazel" derives from the Old English word "hæsel", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*hasalaz". This Proto-Germanic term, in turn, comes from the Proto-Indo-European root "*kas-", meaning "to be hard" or "horn". The word "hazel" is used to refer to both the small tree or shrub (genus Corylus) and its nut. It is likely that the name refers to the hardness of the wood or the shape of the nuts.
2. Alder:
The word "alder" comes from the Old English word "alor", which shares its origin with the Middle Low German word "alre" and the Old High German word "aliso".
