Clethra alnifolia

Object Details

Description: This shrub is excellent for late summer blooms, and works well as either a stand-alone shrub or a hedge. It tolerates shade and clay soils, but prefers sandy soils that are kept consistently moist. One of its common names, “pepperbush” refers to the resemblance of the plant’s fruits to peppercorns – although they have no spiciness.
Hardiness: -40 - 30 F
Attracts: Butterflies to nectar
Bloom Time: July to August
Provenance: Uncertain

Life Form: Deciduous shrub/sub-shrub
Bloom Characteristics: Narrow, upright panicles are 2-6" (5-15.25 cm) long with white flowers.
Fall Color: Yellow to brown
Foliage Characteristics: Alternate, simple, obovate to oblong, glossy, dark green leaves have serrated margines, and are 3-4" (7.6-10.2 cm) long.
Fragrance: Sweet
Fruit Characteristics: Seed capsules are brown and may persist into winter. .12" (.3 cm) across.
Plant Size: 3-8' tall by 4-6' wide (.92-2.44 x 1.22-1.83 meters)
Structure: Rounded