Fetterbush is a native evergreen shrub in the heath family that is found in swampy areas, bogs, and wet woods from VA to FL and west to LA. It grows 3-6 feet tall and wide and has a dense arching, often sprawling form that impedes (fetters) foot traffic of animals and humans, making it a good hedge. Small fragrant flowers appear in clusters in spring and are followed by woody 5-parted capsules. It spreads by root suckers and rhizomes to form thickets.

This plant grows in moist to wet areas with seasonal flooding and prefers partial shade and rich, acidic soil. It does well in better-drained sites, though, and can tolerate sandy soils once established.

Use this shrub as a hedge or privacy screen in naturalized areas and wet sites.

This plant has high-severity poison characteristics.