Quick answer: Coastal sweetpepperbush (Clethra alnifolia) is native to 13 states. What's commonly sold under this name is often a bred variety or the wrong species — see the lookalike alert below. It's typically seeds, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Sten Porse, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium, High |
| Soil | Acidic, moist, sandy |
| Bloom | Jul-Aug |
| Height | 3-8 ft |
| Wildlife value | Fragrant flowers attract bees/butterflies |
Lookalike alert
Seeds (20 ct), Only 19 left In Stock, $7.97 (Amazon Warning: pink 'Rosea' cultivar, not wild-type white).
Sold as: Seeds via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Coastal sweetpepperbush
Where is Coastal sweetpepperbush native?
Coastal sweetpepperbush (Clethra alnifolia) is native to 13 states across the Northeast and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Coastal sweetpepperbush bloom?
Coastal sweetpepperbush blooms Jul-Aug. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Coastal sweetpepperbush need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Medium, High. Soil: Acidic, moist, sandy. Mature height: 3-8 ft.
Is Coastal sweetpepperbush good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Fragrant flowers attract bees/butterflies.
Is Coastal sweetpepperbush deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Coastal sweetpepperbush is tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Coastal sweetpepperbush seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seeds that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Be aware that some sellers offer bred varieties under this name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Coastal sweetpepperbush.
- Swamp azalea Rhododendron viscosum
- Inkberry Ilex glabra
- Threadleaf coreopsis Coreopsis verticillata
- Green-and-gold Chrysogonum virginianum
- Virginia sweetspire Itea virginica
- Smooth hydrangea Hydrangea arborescens
Also listed under
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