Clethra acuminata (Cinnamon Clethra)
Noted for its showy cinnamon-colored bark and fragrant white flowers, Clethra acuminata (Cinnamon Clethra) is a small, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub or handsome small tree with an elegant tiered branching habit. In summer, it boasts a profusion of drooping racemes, 3-8 in. long (7-20 cm), packed with pleasantly fragrant, small white bell flowers. Rich in nectar, they are very attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. They are followed by spikes of peppercorn-shaped seed capsules which persist through winter, providing continuing interest. Emerging in late spring, the rich glossy green foliage of alternate, simple leaves, 3-6 in. long (7-15 cm), turns bright golden-yellow in fall. The rich cinnamon-brown, exfoliating bark provides winter interest. Native to eastern North America, Cinnamon Clethra is a wonderful, trouble-free shrub with three seasons of interest that is perfect for moist, slightly acidic, well-drained soils. Excellent as a specimen plant or in small groupings, shrub borders, or the woodland understory.
- Grows up to 8-20 ft. tall (240-600 cm) with a spread of 4-6 ft. (120-180 cm). Develops a suckering habit and tends to slowly form colonies.
- This plant is best grown in full sun to part shade in average, moist, slightly acidic, well-drained soils. Full shade is tolerated, though it flowers best with more sun.
- Great for butterfly gardens, native gardens, shade, or woodland gardens.
- This plant enjoys excellent resistance to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for fungal dieback and root rot. Deer resistant.
- Can be pruned to a tree form.
- Propagate by seed or softwood cuttings, with or without hormone treatment, under mist.
- Native to eastern North America.
Requirements
Hardiness | 6 – 7 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Shrubs |
Plant Family | Clethra |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade |
Season of Interest | Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter |
Height | 8' – 20' (240cm – 6m) |
Spread | 4' – 6' (120cm – 180cm) |
Spacing | 60″ – 72″ (150cm – 180cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy |
Native Plants | United States, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Southeast, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia |
Tolerance | Deer |
Attracts | Birds, Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |