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Meet the Breeder
Michael A. Dirr, Ph.D
University of Georgia
‘Sixteen Candles’
Summersweet
Clethra alnifolia
'Sixteen Candles'
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- Native to North America
- Fragrant
- Deer resistant
- Description
Dense, mounded habit and larger blooms make 'Sixteen Candles' summersweet a nice choice for small spaces. The dark green foliage turns yellow in autumn. Fragrant mid-summer flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
- USDA Zone
- 4 - 9 (-30°F/-34.4°C)
- Exposure
- Full sun, Part sun
- Height
- 3 - 6'
- Width
- 3 - 6'
- 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, Fall interest, Fragrant, Native, Deer resistant, Dwarf, Clay soil, Salt tolerant
Filters: Botanical genus: Clethra, Common name: Summersweet, Retail program: Local Roots®, 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, Fall interest, Fragrant, Native, Deer resistant, Dwarf, Clay soil, Salt tolerant
Filters: Botanical genus: Clethra, Common name: Summersweet, Retail program: Local Roots®, 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