Overview
Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' is a bushy deciduous shrub in the genus Clethra, part of the Clethraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.5 m tall. Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden. It is native to Nova Scotia.
About
Clethra alnifolia, the coastal sweetpepperbush or summer sweet, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Clethra of the family Clethraceae, native to eastern North America from southern Nova Scotia and Maine south to northern Florida, and west to eastern Texas. It is a deciduous shrub which grows in wetlands, bogs and woodland streams.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clethra alnifolia
About the genus
Clethra is a genus of flowering shrubs or small trees erected as a genus by Linnaeus in 1753.
Wikipedia contributors, "Clethra", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Clethra
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Clethra
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Wet
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Deciduous shrub
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.5 m
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- Nova Scotia
- Fragrance
- Fragrant flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata'
- Propagation
- Seed in spring or autumn; softwood cuttings in early summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata'?
Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' need?
Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.
How big does Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' grow?
Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' reaches a height of 2.5 m.
Is Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' hardy in the UK?
Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Clethra alnifolia 'Paniculata'?
Seed in spring or autumn; softwood cuttings in early summer.