Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia)

Native to eastern North America, this upright deciduous shrub has fragrant white flowers arranged in showy 3- to 5-inch racemes. Summersweet is unique among flowering shrubs because of its ability to bloom in shady locations in late summer when few other shrubs are in bloom. Blooming in July to August, providing beauty to the late summer garden as well as food for bees and butterflies. The fruit is eaten by birds and other wildlife. Use clethra for summer flowers in wet, shady areas, particularly where the fragrance can be appreciated. It is a very hardy, carefree plant. Effective as a hedge. Also appropriate for moist soils along stream banks or pond/water garden peripheries. Plant near a patio to enjoy the fragrant late summer bloom. Compact size makes this an ideal flowering shrub for smaller gardens.