A genus of small to medium-sized shrubs and trees known for their fragrant white flowers and bell-shaped blooms.
From Greek klethron, an ancient name for an alder tree. The genus was formally named in the 18th century based on this classical reference, though modern clethra species differ from the original plant.
Clethra is called 'sweet pepperbush' because its flowers smell amazing—and it blooms in late summer when most gardens are getting boring, making it a secret weapon for gardeners seeking extended fragrance.
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