Alnus incana ssp. rugosa or speckled alder, is a low, clump-forming shrub or small tree that is native to Ontario and ranges throughout� eastern North America and is best suited for moist, open areas. Speckled alder can tolerate clay soil, dry sites, occasional flooding, and wet sites, but not prolonged flooding. This species requires slightly acidic, to neutral pH (7.0), and will become chloric in alkaline soil. It is commonly found in the nursery industry and is a wonderful alternative to the European alder. The stunning species serves as a larval host for the Green Comma butterfly.