Clicking the following controls will change the main image displayed above.
Clethra alnifolia
Summersweet
Clethra alnifolia
- Native to North America
- Fragrant
- Deer resistant
- Description
Our native Clethra alnifolia is useful for its adaptablity to wet soils and shady conditions. Fragrant white summer flowers attract butterflies. Deer resistant, with good fall color and a nice upright habit. Excellent for mixed borders and naturalizing.
- USDA Zone
- 4 - 9 (-30°F/-34.4°C)
- Exposure
- Full sun, Part sun
- Height
- 4 - 8'
- Width
- 4 - 8'
- Finish Time
- 1 season
- Type
- Deciduous
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Foliage Color
- Green
General Care
Soil
Grows well in moist and even wet soil though it will tolerate some dryness once established. Prefers soil pH on the acidic side.Pruning
If pruning is desired, do so in early spring, when the new growth begins to appear on the stems.Uses
Foundation plantings; mixed borders; wildlife gardens; naturalizing.Growing Tips
Clethra is a reliable choice for flowering in shaded conditions, though flowering, fragrance, and fall color are all at their best with at least a few hours of sun each day.Features: Attracts pollinators, Fragrant, Native, Deer resistant, Fall interest, Clay soil, Salt tolerant
Filters: Botanical genus: Clethra, Common name: Summersweet, Retail program: Proven Winners® ColorChoice®, USDA Zone 4, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, USDA Zone 8, USDA Zone 9, Exposure: Full sun, Exposure: Part sun, Bloom time: Summer, White flowers, Green foliage
Features: Attracts pollinators, Fragrant, Native, Deer resistant, Fall interest, Clay soil, Salt tolerant
Filters: Botanical genus: Clethra, Common name: Summersweet, Retail program: Proven Winners® ColorChoice®, USDA Zone 4, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, USDA Zone 8, USDA Zone 9, Exposure: Full sun, Exposure: Part sun, Bloom time: Summer, White flowers, Green foliage