Botanical profile

Clethra alnifolia

Latin name
Clethra alnifolia
Common name
Sweet pepperbush
Type
Ornamental shrub
Family
Clethraceae

Clethra alnifolia, commonly known as summersweet or sweet pepperbush, is an ornamental and ecological shrub highly valued for its fragrant summer blooms and high tolerance to moist soils. It forms a dense, rounded shrub, ideal for naturalistic beds, informal hedges, and plantings in wet or poorly drained areas. In summer, it is covered with upright clusters of small, intensely fragrant white flowers that attract a wealth of pollinating insects. Its deciduous dark green foliage turns beautiful golden yellow in autumn, extending its decorative interest. Very hardy and perfectly adapted to Québec's conditions, Clethra alnifolia is easy to grow and an excellent choice for enriching biodiversity while adding fragrance and elegance to the garden.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Hardiness zones 3–9
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Regular to abundant
Fertilization
Little necessary, compost in spring
Soil type
Wet to saturated, acidic to neutral
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Summer
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Small persistent brown capsules
Foliage color
Dark green → yellow in autumn
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Dense and rounded shrub
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
6.5–10 ft (2–3 m)
Width
5–8 ft (1.5–2.5 m)
Growth rate
Moderate
Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.