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shrub
Summersweet
Clethra alnifolia
Summersweet is a deciduous shrub prized for its fragrant, bottlebrush-like white flowers in summer. It thrives in moist to wet conditions.
USDA Zones
3–9
Height
3 ft–8 ft at maturity
Bloom Season
July – August
Bloom Color
White
Wildlife🦌 Deer Resistant🐾 Groundhog Resistant
Pet Safe†🐕 Dog-Friendly🐈 Cat-Friendly
Garden🌿 Native to US🐝 Attracts Pollinators🦋 Attracts Butterflies🪶 Attracts Hummingbirds
† "Dog-Friendly" / "Cat-Friendly" means this plant is not listed as toxic by common horticultural references. It is not a guarantee of safety for all animals in all circumstances. If your pet ingests any plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435.
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Sun Requirements
Full Sun to Part Shade
Adaptable to 4–8+ hours of sunlight
Soil Type
Moist, acidic
Care Requirements
Water Needshigh
Maintenancelow
EvergreenNo
Complete Care Guide
Prefers consistently moist, acidic soil. Tolerates shade but blooms best with more sun.