The speckled alder grows in poorly drained places and abandoned fields. Speckled alders can grow up to 4 meters.Their branches are light reddish. Seeds are a favorite winter food of common Red Poll, Pine Siskin and American Gold Finches and are eaten by dozens of other species. Their flowers bloom in April or May. They live for four seasons. Speckled Alders can be harmed by insects and diseases like webworms, gypsy moth and rough bark. Speckled Alders are found in wet open grounds. Seed cones are used for crafts’ wreaths and greenry.