Extremely fragrant and flowering in late summer, sweet pepperbush (Clethra alnifolia) grows abundantly in low woods, swamps and lakeshores along the east coast of the United States. At Highstead, this native shrub occurs naturally on two acres of swampland and is the inspiration for the collection of cultivated sweet pepperbush planted at the pond. The cultivars show the potential variation of the species, and illustrate to visitors what garden forms are available in the nursery trade. Twelve cultivars are currently represented in the Clethra Collection .
The native species and cultivars are accessible by trail, providing opportunities to admire the range of attributes that make this native plant a welcome addition to home landscapes and natural areas.
A Self-guided Tour of Native and Cultivated Sweet Pepperbush brochure can be viewed on-line (in Adobe PDF format).
Individuals or groups interested in visiting Highstead must make prior arrangements.
