CLETHRA
<
>
CLETHRA
Commonly known as Summersweet, Sweet pepper bush
The fruit which gives this shub its common name though pepper-like is not suitable for culinary use.
Grown for their fragrant, bell- to cup-shaped flowers.
Genus of more than 60 species of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs, from woodland, swamps and rocky places in eastern Asia and North America, with one species from Madeira (C. arborea).
Full Plant Details - Sun/Soil & other attributes
-
Good to know
Wildlife plant - insects, butterflies. -
Pests & Diseases
None. -
Place of origin
Western China. -
Deciduousrich, blue-green leaves to 15cm (6in) long.
-
White
-
Cup-shaped
Nodding, cup-shaped flowers 2cm (¾in) across -
RacemesDense, terminal racemes to 25cm (10in) long
-
Fully hardy
-
Serrulate
-
Lanceolate
-
Height
4m (13ft) -
Spread
4m (13ft)
-
Tall ShrubErect shrub with arching shoots
-
Pruning group 1
Suitable for: Deciduous and evergreen trees, and some deciduous shrubs.
Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Prune wayward or crossing branches to maintain a healthy framework.
When: When dormant in the late winter/early spring. Some in the summer/autumn to prevent bleeding of sap.
-
Hardy - cold winter
Hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. May not withstand open/exposed sites or central/northern locations. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F) -
Summer Seasonal Interest
-
Acid / ericaceous loving
-
Fertile moist well-drained soilHumus-rich.
-
Partial shade
Or dappled shade. -
Bee friendly
-
Butterfly friendly
-
Mature Size4m (13ft)
4m (13ft)
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
Clethra - Growing Guide
