Summersweet 'Ruby Spice'

‘Ruby Spice’ Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia ‘Ruby Spice’). Clethra alnifolia ‘Ruby Spice’ is a highly sought-after ornamental shrub prized for its fragrant summer blooms and deep pink to rosy red floral hue, more intense than that of other summersweet cultivars. It develops a dense, rounded, shrubby habit, perfectly suited for beds, informal hedges, and naturalistic plantings, especially in moist soils. In summer, its long, upright clusters of nectar-rich flowers abundantly attract pollinating insects, adding significant ecological value to the garden. Its deciduous dark green foliage turns golden yellow in autumn, extending its ornamental interest into the late season.

To plant ‘Ruby Spice’ summersweet, choose a suitable exposure: full sun to partial shade. The recommended soil is moist to wet, acidic to neutral. Water the root ball before planting it in the ground and ensure that water can drain after planting. During establishment, check the soil moisture by hand before watering again. Spread mulch around the base, leaving the crown clear. Avoid systematic fertilizer applications without considering the soil's richness. In Quebec, choose a period when the soil is unfrozen and easy to work.

Allow for a width of 1.2 m (4 ft) when planning this plant's space in the garden. The indicated height of 1.5 m (5 ft) helps in choosing its position relative to neighboring plants. Maintain access to the base for weeding, checking moisture, and removing damaged parts. Associate this variety with plants whose light and water needs are compatible. If you are considering a container, first check that its volume and drainage are suitable for root development. Potted roots are more exposed to cold than those planted in the ground.