Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia)

Summersweet

Also known as: White alder

Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia) is a flowering plant native to North America. Summersweet is popular in woodland gardens because it attracts birds and butterflies.

Scientific classification

Species

Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

8 cm to 15 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

White, Pink

Flower Color

Green, Red, White, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Summersweet

Attributes of Summersweet

Growth Rate

Summersweet's moderate growth rate in spring and summer enables steady development. Spring initiates leaf expansion and stem elongation, while summer warming prompts flower clustering and height increase. Variations may occur, but growth remains consistent in these seasons, demonstrating a precision in its horticultural cycle.

Distribution of Summersweet

Distribution Map

Summersweet's native range is from Southeast Canada to Texas. Naturalization hasn't taken place elsewhere other than in the Netherlands. Summersweet's natural habitat consists of swampy lands, sandy woodland, and moist thickets.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Swamps, damp thickets, sandy woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Summersweet is a rather uncommon shrub that blooms late in the summer season. It can be used as a hedge but also looks nice in a shrub border. Summersweet makes a great addition to naturalistic, woodland, or cottage-style gardens. Dogwood, asters, and purple coneflowers make a wonderful combo with this plant.

Name Story

Summersweet: This plant comes from the eastern part of America. It sprouts green leaves during the spring season while it sprouts white or pink-red flowers during the summer. Since its fragrance is the most attractive during the summer, it is then called summersweet.

Coastal sweetpepperbush: The "pepper" part of the common name comes from the mature fruits, that seem like capsules with resemblance of peppercorns. However, it does not taste spicy. As it is commonly grown along the coast, it is called coastal sweetpepperbush.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Summersweet, including the following common varieties :

Summersweet 'Ruby Spice'

Quickly Identify Summersweet

Fragrant white flowers on dense spikes (5-15 cm) bloom June to August.

Distinctive dry capsules (3 mm) with three valves, maturing to brown.

Glossy obovate leaves (7.5-10 cm long) turning golden brown in fall.

Slender trunk with gray, vertically striped bark developing into scaly ridges.

Pubescent fruit capsules, tan-brown in autumn, remaining on plant for over a year.

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Care Guide for Summersweet

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Summersweet thrives in moist woodland settings, preferring high humidity and consistently damp soil. It tolerates moderate drought but needs regular moisture, ideally watered every 1-2 weeks. When mulched, summersweet preserves soil moisture and mimics its natural habitat, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation.

Fertilize: Summersweet thrives with balanced fertilizers like 10-10-10 applied annually in spring. High nitrogen boosts foliage, but moderation prevents harm. Avoid late summer fertilization. Use slow-release formulas and start with half-strength. Always water thoroughly after application for optimal nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Prune summersweet in early spring to remove dead or damaged branches, enhance air circulation, and stimulate new growth. Light shaping maintains an attractive form. Timely pruning promotes vigorous flowering and rejuvenates the plant, ensuring a thriving and beautiful addition to your garden.

Propagation: Summersweet propagates through cutting and layering, best in autumn and winter, with moderate difficulty. Success is indicated by new growth and roots. Maintaining consistent moisture and providing adequate light are essential for successful propagation.

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Images of Summersweet

Attributes of Summersweet

Distribution of Summersweet

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Summersweet

Care Guide for Summersweet

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Common Pests & Diseases