F LORA & FAUNA
COASTAL SWEET PEPPERBUSH
Clethra alnifolia
There are few shrubs that can rival our native deciduous coastal sweet pepperbush( Clethra alnifolia) in popularity. At the last count, ten cultivars in a variety of heights and colors were available. Chances are you’ ll smell the strong perfume of the flowers before you spot the plant, blooming in the dog days of midsummer. Hummingbirds and butterflies seem especially fond of its tubular flowers. Berries, resembling peppercorns, follow in the fall and provide food for birds. Sweet pepperbush also thrives in moist soils and partial shade, making it a versatile and reliable choice for coastal gardens.
MAYPOP
Passiflora incarnata
One of the better-known butterfly – host relationships is that of maypop( Passiflora incarnata) and the Gulf fritillary( Agraulis vanillae). This plant also hosts the variegated fritillary( Euptoieta claudia) and zebra longwing( Heliconius charithonia) in our area. The fruits of maypop are green, egg-shaped, and not very tasty, but they do make a satisfying popping sound when squashed. Be aware that this vine can grow aggressively, spreading widely by underground roots. Its striking purple flowers, however, make it a showstopper in the summer garden and a valuable nectar source for a wide range of pollinators.
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