Italian Alder
Scientific name: Alnus cordata
Overview
Italian Alder is a medium-sized hardwood native to southern Europe, particularly Italy and surrounding Mediterranean regions. The wood is light in color and has a fine, even texture that makes it easy to work.
Like other alder species, the wood is relatively soft for a hardwood but machines well and takes finishes evenly. It is often used for furniture, cabinetry, and interior woodworking projects.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Italian Alder
- Scientific Name: Alnus cordata
- Region: European Hardwoods (Southern Europe – Italy & Mediterranean region)
- Tree Size: 60–80 ft tall, 1–2 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 28 lbs/ft³ (450 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 590 lbf
- Color: Pale tan to light reddish brown, darkening with age
- Grain: Straight
- Texture: Fine and even
Identification Characteristics
Italian Alder typically has a uniform appearance with a straight grain and fine texture. The wood is usually light brown with subtle reddish tones. Growth rings may be visible but are generally not prominent.
Key identification traits include:
- Pale reddish-brown color
- Straight grain
- Fine, even texture
- Uniform appearance
- Lightweight hardwood
Working Properties
Italian Alder works easily with both hand and machine tools. The wood cuts cleanly and sands well, producing smooth surfaces when finished. Because of its relatively low density, it is often chosen for projects that require easy machining.
- Machines easily
- Cuts cleanly with hand and power tools
- Sands to a smooth surface
- Glues and finishes well
- Good dimensional stability
Safety Note
Wood dust from alder species may cause irritation in some individuals. Standard dust collection and respiratory protection are recommended when machining or sanding.
Common Uses
Italian Alder is used primarily for interior woodworking.
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Interior trim
- Turning projects
- Decorative woodworking
Sustainability & Notes
Italian Alder grows relatively quickly and is often planted as an ornamental or shade tree in Mediterranean regions. The wood is not as widely traded as other European hardwoods but is locally important in woodworking.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
European Alder – Closely related species with similar appearance and working properties.
European Beech – A harder and heavier hardwood often used for furniture.
Silver Birch – Another light-colored European hardwood commonly used in interior projects.
Related Guides
How to Identify Exotic Hardwood by Grain Pattern
The fine grain and uniform texture help distinguish alder species.
Working With Dense Hardwoods
Understanding hardness differences helps when selecting woods for projects.
How to Store Exotic Wood Samples
Proper storage helps prevent warping and moisture damage.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Italian Alder is a useful species for wood collections because it represents a Mediterranean alder species that differs slightly from other European alders. Samples typically show a uniform grain pattern and a light reddish-brown color.
Collectors may display Italian Alder alongside European Alder to compare variations between alder species.
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Do you have lumber, wood samples, tree photographs, woodworking projects, furniture, carvings, turnings, musical instruments, or other items made from this species?
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When submitting photos, please include the common name, scientific name (if known), a brief description, and any information you would like us to share with the image.
Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
Lumber Suppliers:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
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