'Woodlander’s Sarah' Sweet Pepperbush has all the things you might know and love about Clethra. It’s a gorgeous deciduous shrub with finely-toothed foliage, clustered spikes of fragrant white flowers, and tolerates a variety of growing conditions, including swampy, wet soils. Where this selection departs from the familiar is in its beautifully variegated leaves. With a look that evokes cream splattering onto freshly-cut grass, the unusual patterned leaves of 'Woodlander's Sarah' create an inviting spectacle of contrast among the greens of its neighbors.  

Conditions: Full sun to part sun; prefers wet, acidic soil; adaptable except for dry soils
Size: 5'-10' tall, 4'-6' wide 
Zone: 3 - 9 
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators; seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals 
 

Photos: Samantha Nestory, Dave Korbonits