Sweet pepperbush (Clethra alnifolia) KLETH-rah all-nih-FOE-lee-ah Genus:  Clethra This upright, suckering shrub has fragrant, white or pink terminal flower spikes in late summer. The blooms look like bottle brushes and attract butterflies and bees. Leaves turn a pleasant yellow in autumn. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Cultivars include ‘Paniculata’, ‘Rosea’, ‘Pink Spires’, and ‘Hummingbird’. Blooms well in shady areas. Care:  Site in dappled or partial shade and fertile, acidic, moist but well-drained soil. In winter, remove some of the oldest wood at the base. Propagation:  Sow seed at 43° to 54°F in spring or autumn. Root greenwood cuttings in early summer. Problems:  Fungal dieback and root rot can occur.

Overview

Height 6 ft. to 10 ft. Spread 6 ft. to 10 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Invasive/Aggressive Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Flowers, Native Bloom Time Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Pink, White Uses Beds and Borders Style Shade, Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Deer Tolerant Type Shrubs