CLETHRA
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CLETHRA
Commonly known as Summer sweet, Sweet pepper bush, White alder
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
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Pests & Diseases
Trouble free -
Place of origin
USA. Garden origin -
Deciduousglossy, dark green leaves 8-10cm (3-4in) long turning yellow in autumn
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White
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Bell/LanternBell-shaped flowers to 1cm (½in) across
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Racemes
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Fully hardy
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Serrulate
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Lanceolate
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Oblong
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Height
2m (6½ft) -
Spread
2m (6½ft)
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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.
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Hardy - average winter
Hardy through most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude and central/northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -10°C (14°F) -
Scented flowers
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Autumn Seasonal Interest
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Summer Seasonal Interest
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Full sun
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Partial shade
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Bee friendly
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Butterfly friendly
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
Clethra - Growing Guide
