Grey alder is a small tree that grows along the banks of Rattlesnake Creek and the Clark Fork. Although they need regular water to establish, alders tolerate periodic dry-down and are a good option for a rain garden or someplace where they receive extra runoff from a downspout or roof eave. If you are fortunate enough to have waterfront, this species is a valuable bank stabilizer and provides quality nesting habitat. Plants along waterways will often grow taller, possibly to 25’. Ones in drier or shadier sites will remain shrub-like, usually with multiple stems.