Clethra alnifolia Ripple Effect™ - 1 gallon pot

Lustrous, bushy, dark green foliage provides the perfect backdrop for the abundant, fragrant white flowers of North American native Clethra alnifolia Ripple Effect™. This compact Summersweet thrives in average to moist, acidic soil, producing successive racemes of richly scented flowers that attract pollinators and human admirers. The plant’s leaves change color in autumn, adding another season of interest. Use this deciduous shrub in foundation plantings, mixed borders, and native and pollinator gardens, mass them to create a low hedge, or enjoy a single shrub in a large container. Plants do not fare well where it is dry. A Proven Winners®/Color Choice® variety. 'SMNCAC' PPAF

The genus comprises about 30 species of small trees and shrubs native to the Americas and eastern Asia. Only a few are hardy, and those, including our East Coast native C. alnifolia, are known for their spikes of fragrant flowers in white or pink. Few ornamental shrubs bloom as late in the season—its buds wait until late July to open.

Clethra is amazingly adaptable, growing equally well in full sun or partial shade, and in moist conditions or dry (evenly moist soil is required in the South). It's an excellent choice for the natural garden or a mixed border and is essential in any low, wet spot.

For more information on growing and care, click Growing Guide.