Speckled Alder

Honeybees visit speckled alder primarily for its abundant early-season pollen from male catkins, supporting spring colony buildup when few other sources are available, though female catkins offer minimal nectar. Peak bloom occurs in March to May in temperate climates, providing a critical pollen boost. As a nitrogen-fixing shrub that forms suckering thickets in wet soils, it may require containment to avoid encroaching on managed areas and is often browsed by deer.