Clethra Barbinervis

Japanese Summersweet, Summersweet

Note: This is an archive page preserved for informational use.
Cultural and Growing Info is provided below.

An Antidote to December!
Each season ushers in something new on this extraordinary deciduous shrub/tree. Horizontal finger-like white fragrant flower clusters open from pearl-shaped buds highlighting the dark green glossy foliage. Autumn foliage varies; sometimes bright yellow or occasionally red is adorned with brown seed capsules. The winter garden concludes with a grand finale with a most striking feature - lovely exfoliating bark displaying patches of cinnamon and gray. Clethra Barbinervis is a trouble-free shrub or small tree perfect for moist areas along streams, near ponds or water gardens. Good fall color and incredible winter interest.

Code CLBA

Patent

Plant Type Shrubs

Species

Height Tall 10-20'

Spacing Plant 10-15' apart

Bloom Time Mid-Summer to Late Summer

Sun / Shade Full Sun to Half Sun / Half Shade

Zones 5-8

Soil Type Normal

Water Needs Medium

Sold In Plantable Pots (3.5x3.5x4")

Special Features

  • Beneficial for Pollinators
  • Attracts Butterflies
  • Fragrant
  • Attracts Hummingbirds
  • Winter Interest
  • For a Slope or Bank
  • Good for Hedge
  • Seaside/Salt Tolerant
  • Wet Site Tolerant

Clethra General Information

Clethra are upright deciduous shrubs. Foliage turns from deep green to yellow in fall. Will handle both wet and windy seaside locations. All have sweetly fragrant flowers, and prefer damp organic soil. Late to wake in the spring. Idaho has restricted all potted plant material from being shipped into Idaho at this time.

Clethra Plant Care

No pruning necessary, but shape in spring if desired. Older specimens can be freshened by removing some of the oldest wood as flowering is generally better on younger stems.

Plantable Pots

Our plants are grown in 3.5x3.5x4” plantable pots. Made from 100% biodegradable coconut husk fibers (coir), these pots have tremendous advantages over plastic pots. With better air exchange, this "breathable" pot fosters robust root growth and reduces transplant shock since you can plant the pots directly in the ground. The pot naturally becomes part of the soil on its own over time—no composting required—and since they're made from a renewable resource that requires very little energy, they're earth-friendly too!

100% Guarantee

We offer a 100% guarantee for all our perennials to reach you in good condition and to grow. If you're not satisfied, we'll reship or refund immediately. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions or concerns—we share your passion for gardening and want your new plants to thrive in your border!

Shipping Details

We use custom, earth-friendly packaging to make sure your order arrives in great condition, and we ship based on the best planting time for your growing zone (see the approximate dates below), unless otherwise indicated at checkout. If you wish, you can indicate a specific ship date during checkout.

Spring

  • Zone 3, 4: Early to Mid May
  • Zone 5: Late April to Early May
  • Zone 6: Mid to Late April
  • Zone 7: Early to Mid April
  • Zone 8, 9, 10: Early April

Fall

  • Zone 2, 3, 4: Early September
  • Zone 5: Early to Mid September
  • Zone 6: Mid September
  • Zone 7: Mid to Late September
  • Zone 8, 9, 10: Late September to Early October

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