Trees in Vienna: Argentinierstrasse threatens to die!

Trees in Vienna: Argentinierstrasse threatens to die!

Argentinierstraße, 1040 Wien, Österreich - in Argentinierstrasse, not far from the radio house, four trees cause excitement. These magnificent plants, more precisely half of the Alnus X Spaethii 'Spaeth'-better known as purple Erlen-face a serious problem. According to a report by meinbezirk.at they were insufficiently irrigated. A technical defect in the underground irrigation system was the reason why the trees did not receive the necessary care.

A tree must be removed in autumn, while the other three are under observation. The responsible magistrate department 42, also known as Viennese city gardens, takes care of the care of the plants concerned. The irrigation system is currently being repaired so that the alder, which are known for their impressive height of up to 20 meters, can receive the necessary support again.

The purple-Erle in detail

The Alnus X Spaethii is not only a nice sight, but also an interesting tree with a story. This hybrid between A. Japonica and A. Subcordata, which was bred in the Späeth tree nurseries in Berlin in 1894, has been very popular since its market launch in 1908. Her leaves adorn herself in a violet purple color in a youth and turn into a magnificent purple-red in autumn, which makes them a real eye-catcher. According to treesandshrubsonline.org , the purple is also known for its robust, even oval crowns and the remarkable kitten, which also provides interest in winter.

The Purpur-Erle is particularly valued not only as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens, but also as a street tree due to its adaptability. These trees are quickly growing and reach up to 15 meters in optimal conditions in just 15 years. They also tolerate dry periods, but are best lifted in moist conditions.

challenges from climate change

The situation around the trees in Argentinierstrasse goes beyond the individual plants and reflects a greater challenge with which the cities have to fight in the face of climate change. A report of the Climate Service Center Germany has shown that the number of hot days and heat waves will increase by 2050. This brings additional loads for city trees that have to exist in a changing climate.

The need to use heat and dry-tolerant tree species is becoming increasingly important in order to meet urban growth conditions. Despite the current problem with the Purpur Erlen, the hope that the initial care measures will help will save the remaining trees. In the best case, these plants could be a sign of sustainable care and the right choice of tree species in Viennese districts.