Contents
Description
Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice, also known as Summersweet, is a deciduous shrub native to the eastern United States. It belongs to the Clethraceae family and is known for its beautiful pink flowers and sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Clethraceae |
| Genus | Clethra |
Appearance
Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice can grow up to 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide. It has a compact, rounded shape and dark green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The flowers bloom in mid to late summer and are a vibrant pink color. They also have a sweet, spicy fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice is a relatively low-maintenance shrub. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun. It is hardy in zones 3-9.
Water: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Plant in partial shade to full sun.
Hardiness Zones: Hardy in zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to scale insects and powdery mildew. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat them as soon as possible with an insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice is native to the eastern United States and can be found in wetlands, swamps, and along streams and rivers. It is a great shrub for a rain garden or other wet areas in the garden.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I propagate Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice?
A: Yes, you can propagate Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice by taking softwood cuttings in the spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in the summer.
Q: Does Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice attracts bees and butterflies with its sweet fragrance and nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice tolerate drought?
A: No, Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well.
Q: When should I prune Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Clethra alnifolia
- Clethra barbinervis
- Clethra monostachya
References
- “Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c480.
- “Clethra Alnifolia Ruby Spice.” The Spruce, 8 Feb. 2021, www.thespruce.com/clethra-alnifolia-ruby-spice-profile-4790755.
