Clethra alnifolia 'Ruby Spice' (Sweet Pepperbush 'Ruby Spice') is a dependable, late-season flowering shrub that brings color and fragrance when many landscapes have started to fade. In mid to late summer, it produces upright spikes of rose-pink, sweetly fragrant flowers that draw pollinators and add a rich accent to mixed borders and naturalistic plantings.

To get the best performance, plant it where the soil stays evenly moist. It is happiest in acidic, organic-rich ground, but it also adapts to heavier soils and sites that stay damp. Give it full sun to part shade for the fullest growth and best bloom; it will also tolerate deeper shade, especially where moisture is reliable. Keep the root zone from drying out, particularly during hot or windy weather.

At maturity, expect a rounded, multi-stemmed shrub about 48-72 inches tall with a broad, upright habit. It can form root suckers over time; remove suckers if you want a tighter outline, or allow them to develop for a more naturalized look. Because it flowers on new wood, you can prune in late winter to shape and encourage fresh growth for summer bloom. Use it along stream edges, in rain gardens, or near a patio or walkway where you can enjoy the cinnamon-sweet scent. In fall, the foliage often turns attractive yellow to golden-brown, extending its season of interest.

Specifications

• Cold hardiness zone: 4-8 (-30 degrees F) - Contact your local extension to confirm hardiness if you are in a fringe zone (we cannot guarantee hardiness in fringe zones)
• Light: Full sun   Part sun   Shade
• Growth rate: Moderate
• Mature height: 48-72"
• Spread: 36-60"
• Tolerant of: Wet Conditions, Salt
• Attracts: Butterflies
• Fragrant: Yes
• Native to the U.S.: Yes

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