Plant of the Month, August 2005

Clethra alnifolia

at a glance:
Common Name:

Summersweet, Sweet Pepperbush

Plant type: Deciduous shrub
Family: Clethraceae
Height/Spread: 4 to 10 ft. tall and wide; spreads slowly by suckers. Thin, strong branches form vertical pattern.

Leaves:  Glossy, dark green, tooth-edged, 2 – 4  inch  long leaves appear late in spring, turn golden yellow to brownish in fall
Flowers:  During mid to late summer, each branch tip carries several 4 – 6 in. long spires of tiny, gleaming white flowers with a  spicy perfume.
Bloom Period: Mid to late summer
Diseases/pests: Can get mites if the soil is too dry.
Conditions:  Partial shade; moist to wet, slightly acid, well-drained soil.
Natural Range: Eastern U.S.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3-9
Location: Entrance Bed