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RIPPLE EFFECT™

Summersweet

Clethra alnifolia

'SMNCAC'

PPAF

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Close up of a white flower of Ripple Effect clethra Numerous white blooms of Ripple Effect summersweet
  • Fragrant
  • Compact habit
  • Abundant blooming
Description

A front of flowers and fragrance, Ripple Effect™ summersweet was a favorite in our trials, selected for its multiple, successively blooming, floral racemes. The fragrant white flowers bloom abundantly in summer, drawing in bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The flowers are backdropped by healthy dark green foliage, which gets a lovely blend of fall coloring in autumn. This native Clethra alnifolia has a dense, compact habit, tucking nicely into foundation plantings, mixed borders, or in pollinator or wildlife gardens. 

USDA Zone
4 - 10 (-30°F/-34°C)
Exposure
Full sun, Part sun
Height
3-5'
Width
3-4'
Finish Time
1 season
Type
Deciduous
Bloom Time
Summer
Flower Color
White
Foliage Color
Green
Liner Sizes
2 1/4", 4", Quick Turn

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, Fall interest, Compact, Fragrant, New

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, USDA Zone 10, Exposure: Full sun, Exposure: Part sun, Bloom time: Summer, Bloom time: Fall, White flowers, Green foliage

Features: Attracts pollinators, Fall interest, Compact, Fragrant, New

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, USDA Zone 10, Exposure: Full sun, Exposure: Part sun, Bloom time: Summer, Bloom time: Fall, White flowers, Green foliage