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Clethra alnifolia 'Pink Spire' (Summersweet, Sweet Pepperbush)



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Clethra alnifolia 'Pink Spire' KLETH-rah all-nih-FOE-lee-ah Common Name: Summersweet, Sweet Pepperbush Genus: Clethra
Very fragrant, light pink bottlebrush flowers grace this native shrub in late summer and early fall, attracting butterflies and other insects and perfuming the garden for weeks. Plant it in beds or borders, in a woodland or shade garden, or at waterside. It also has nice fall color.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Fragrant flowers. Attracts butterflies, bees, and other insects. Eastern U.S. native. Blooms well in shade.
 Care: Grow in full sun to part shade (it will tolerate full shade) and moist to wet, acidic, fertile soil. Prefers a lighter soil, but will tolerate clay. Remove root suckers to prevent unwanted spread.
 Propagation: Root cuttings in summer.
 Problems: Generally trouble-free.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium to Wet
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Fragrant Flowers; Native; Showy Fall Foliage; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Early Fall; Fall; Late Summer; Summer
Flower Color Pink Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Waterside
Style Shade, Cottage Garden, Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Shrubs

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