Overview
Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' is a deciduous shrub in the genus Clethra, part of the Clethraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 2.5 m tall. Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, hedges and wildlife gardens. 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 moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Wet
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Deciduous shrub
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 2.5 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, hedges, wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Nova Scotia
- Fragrance
- Fragrant flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, acidic to neutral soils; tolerates wet conditions; plant in full sun to partial shade
- Pruning
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings in summer, seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice'?
Prefers moist, acidic to neutral soils; tolerates wet conditions; plant in full sun to partial shade.
Where is the best place to plant Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice'?
Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' prefers full sun.
What soil does Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' need?
Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.
How do I prune Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice'?
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
How big does Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' grow?
Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' reaches a height of 2.5 m.
Is Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' hardy in the UK?
Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' 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 'Ruby Spice'?
Softwood cuttings in summer, seed.