This upright, suckering shrub has fragrant, white or pink terminal flower spikes in late summer. The blooms look like bottle brushes and attract butterflies and bees. Leaves turn a pleasant yellow in autumn.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsCultivars include ‘Paniculata’, ‘Rosea’, ‘Pink Spires’, and ‘Hummingbird’. Blooms well in shady areas.
CareSite in dappled or partial shade and fertile, acidic, moist but well-drained soil. In winter, remove some of the oldest wood at the base.
PropagationSow seed at 43° to 54°F in spring or autumn. Root greenwood cuttings in early summer.
ProblemsFungal dieback and root rot can occur.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
XLUX Soil Moisture Meter
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Rain Bird PATIOKIT Drip Irrigation Patio Watering Kit
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Dramm 17050 50′ ColorStorm 1/2″ Standard Soaker Hose
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Genus : Clethra
- Zones : 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Plant Width : 6 to 10 feet
- Plant Height : 6 to 10 feet
- Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Flowers
- Tolerance : Deer Tolerant
- Growth Rate : Fast
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Bloom Time : Late Summer, Summer
- Maintenance : Low
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Flower Color : Pink, White
- Uses : Shade
- Plant Type : Shrubs
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.
