Whereas other Alnus accessions at the North Dakota State University Arboretum have declined or died back severely from periodic drought stress, this accession has withstood droughty conditions very well. The plants were donated by Dr. Dale E. Herman for testing in the NC-7 Regional Woody Ornamental Trials. Probable hardiness USDA Zone 3b. This shrub grows 1.0 to 1.2 m high with a slightly greater spread. Branches arch and touch the ground at the tips.
Leaves are medium green and borne in one plane the length of the stems.
Leaves are elliptic or obovate, 3-8 cm long, acuminate, cuneate, coarsely serrate except toward the base and apex, glandular beneath and light green. Petioles are 2-4 mm long. Very likely should be treated as an herbaceous perennial in much of the North Central region. Beautyberries tend to get a ratty appearance in our region if they don't receive a bit more maintenance. Cutting them back to the ground in winter or early spring insures the new growth will not have to compete with last year's winter-injured stems.