Clethra alnifolia aka Coastal Sweetpepperbush
Taxonomy
Clethra alnifolia, also known as coastal sweetpepperbush, summersweet, and sweet pepperbush, is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America. It can be found in wetlands, bogs, woodland streams, swampy woodlands, wet marshes, stream banks, sandy soils, and seashores from southern Nova Scotia and Maine all the way down to northern Florida and west to eastern Texas. This densely-branched shrub can grow to be 5-10 feet tall, with small, white flowers occurring in dense clusters on long 3-6 inch terminal spikes that mature in late summer. The flowers produce high quality nectar and pollen, making it a favorite of hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Common names
Coastal Sweetpepperbush, Summersweet, Coastal Sweet PepperbushHow to care for Coastal Sweetpepperbush
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Coastal Sweetpepperbush is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Coastal Sweetpepperbush should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Coastal Sweetpepperbush loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Coastal Sweetpepperbush prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
Fertilizer
The Coastal Sweetpepperbush should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Coastal Sweetpepperbush as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Coastal Sweetpepperbush’s native range is Eastern N. America - Maine to New Jersey, south to Florida and Mississippi.
More info:
Wikipedia
