The Alnus genus commonly known as Alder belongs to the birch family Betulaceae. The genus comprises about 30 species of monoecious trees and shrubs, a few reaching a large size, distributed throughout the North Temperate Zone with a few species extending into Central America and the northern Andes. The catkins of some alder species have a degree of edibility, and may be rich in protein. Reported to have a bitter and unpleasant taste, they are more useful for survival purposes. The wood of certain alder species is often used to smoke various food items, especially salmon and other seafood.

Alnus acuminata, commonly known as Andean Alder or Andes Alder, is a deciduous tree which grows naturally in montane forests from central Mexico to Argentina. These are fast growing evergreen trees when grown in tropical climates. This species has been introduced in tropical Africa and especially in Madagascar, for the production of timber. This species is also planted in parks and gardens for ornamental value and as a Shade Tree. Hardy to USDA zones 10 to 12 and also an excellent soil nitrogen fixing tree.