Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice'

Ruby Spice Summersweet


Photo courtesy of Prides Corner Farms

  • Native
  • Reddish pink flowers that don't fade
  • Adaptable to shady or moist spots
Border or Bed
Border or Bed
Drought Tolerant
Drought Tolerant
Fragrant
Fragrant
Garden
Garden
Native
Native
Salt Tolerant
Salt Tolerant
Water's Edge / Bog Plant
Water's Edge / Bog Plant



Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Prefers average moisture, acidic soil rich in organic matter and full sun to partial shade. If grown in full sun provide with sufficient moisture. Drought tolerant once established. Pruning can be done in late winter before new growth emerges to encourage bushy spring growth. Mulching is beneficial.


Height: 4-6 ft
Spread: 3-5 ft
Price Level 1: $49.99~#3
Bloom Color: Pink
Zone: 4-8
 

Additional Characteristics & Attributes:


Attributes:

  • Fragrant
  • Water's Edge / Bog Plant
  • Fall Color
  • Native
  • Border or Bed
  • Summer Bloomer
  • Salt Tolerant
  • Garden
  • Drought Tolerant

Critter Resistance:

  • Rabbit Resistant
  • Deer Resistant

Exposure:

  • Full Sun
  • Full Shade
  • Partial Sun

Habit:

  • Upright

Foliage Color:

  • Green

Season of Interest (Flowering):

  • Summer

Season of Interest (Foliage):

  • Fall
  • Summer

Attracts Wildlife:

  • Attracts Pollinators
  • Attracts Butterflies
  • Attracts Hummingbirds
  • Attracts Songbirds

Soil Moisture:

  • Wet Soil/Wetlands
  • Moist, Well-Drained


Genus Overview: Clethra

Common Name: Hummingbird Summersweet

Vase-shaped deciduous shrub with glossy dark green leaves which turn yellow in fall. Fluffy, bottle brush-like, white or pink flower spikes are very fragrant and bloom in summer. Great as an accent plant, in foundation plantings and shrub borders.