The Alder tree.

Did you Know? 

  • Historically alder wood pure charcoal was thought to produce some of the best gunpowder due to its very strong but very consistent heat production.
  • Alder’s high moisture content gives it wide growth rings, which makes for a surprisingly light charcoal!
  • Alder is a fast growing tree, and can be coppiced well, making it very sustainable.
  • Much of the foundations of Venice are built of alder because it doesn’t rot in water. 
  • Alder makes a great smoking wood for fish or chicken, giving a slightly sweet, subtle flavour. See our alder smoking sticks.
  • It is the only native British deciduous tree to develop it’s seeds in cones.
  • Historically thought to be a bad omen because of the blood red colour of the wood when cut and generally associated with death, alder rods would be used to measure corpses and graves.
  • Alder is fantastic for bees as it’s catkins provide an early source of pollen.
  • Because of the wet conditions and its usual proximity to water, Alder is often home to mosses, lichen, fungi, butterflies and many other insects that live near rivers, streams and lakes.
  • As alder lumpwood charcoal is so light, and we package by the kilo, our bags are bursting! You will not be disappointed.

Read more about the fascinating Alder tree from the Woodland Trust

1 review for Alder Charcoal
  1. Iain (verified owner)

    Easily the best charcoal I’ve ever used. As soon as you light it the most pleasant smell fills the garden. Adds a subtle flavour to food. Burn time is good too. I genuinely cannot fault, and once I’m through this batch I’ll be ordering again and again. Thanks for such a quality product! Game changer!

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