The alder

Arcosse or véroce are the patois names for Green Alder (Alnus viridis). This shrub colonises the avalanche paths. Its flexibility means it dœs not get torn by the avalanches. These stems spring up when the snow melts in springtime. The male parts of the plant are catkins which appear in the spring and these pollinate the female parts called achenes. The colonisation of green alders can eradicate the rhododendron moors, which are favourable to the black grouse.