Alder trees are deciduous trees that produce both male and female cones, which are also called “catkins.” The male and female cones of alder trees differ in their appearance.
Male alder cones, also known as “pollen cones,” are small and cylindrical, and grow in clusters at the tips of the branches. They are typically yellow or brown in color, and release pollen into the air in the spring.
Female alder cones, also known as “seed cones,” are larger and more cone-shaped than male cones. They grow on separate branches from the male cones and have a distinct woody texture. The cones start off as small green structures and gradually grow to a size of about 2 to 4 cm in length. When mature, the cones turn brown and harden, and their scales open up to release the seeds.