Alnus nitida, the west Himalayan alder, is a species in the genus Alnus, native to Pakistan, the western Himalayas, and Nepal.[3] It is a tree reaching 20 to 25m, preferring to live along the banks of rivers. It is used locally for timber and firewood, and as a street tree.[4] The bark is used in some places for tanning and dyeing purposes.[5] It grows well in heavy, clay soils and tolerates infertile soils.[6] The leaves are thin, oval to ovate, 3-6 inches long and 2-3 inches wide.[7] Female flowers appear first, followed by male catkinss in September to October, which may be up to 19 cm long.[5] The fruits are woody cones, typically 2.5-3.5 cm long.[8]
