First introduced to England in the late 1700s, Alnus incana is named for its smooth grey bark, which is retained all the way through its maturity. Like all alders, it is a hardy tree, tolerant of the most challenging situations including wet soils and exposed locations. It thrives within difficult chalky and clay soils, making it a nice alternative to common Alnus. It is a particularly light-demanding tree, requiring full exposure to as much sun as possible. This creates a nice solution for exposed locations within difficult urban areas that require quick, instant shading. It roots a little shallower than our native Alnus, which should be considered when planting within liftable hard surfaces.

The catkins of A. incana develop in late February with a pink hue of rosewood, contrasting the yellow seeds. These are followed by small dark leaves, which have a grey underside similar to the silvery bark. These remain dark green on the tree through to late autumn, turning yellow in late November. The leaves are quite different from those of the common alder making it easier to distinguish with the pronounced pointed tip to its leaf. They do not produce the sticky gum of the glutinosa on their new leaves or the stalks.