Clethra alnifolia

The Clethra alnifolia is a bush of the undergrowth, compact, appreciated for its late flowering in clusters of small scented white flowers and its golden yellow foliage in autumn.

Originally from the eastern United States, this sucker-forming bush forms a compact, upright habit, reaching a height of 1.50m (4 ft 11 in) to 2.50m. It bears obovate leaves, deciduous, glossy, alternate, serrated that are 5 to 10 cm (2 to 3.9 in) long, tender green when ripe and golden yellow in autumn. In September, it produces beautiful clusters of flowers of 8 to 15 cm (3.1 to 5.9 in) high, formed by small campanulate flowers, white, downy and highly fragrant.

Hardy down to -15°C (5 °F), the Clethra alnifolia grows in fresh, light, well-drained, acidic soil in a semi-shaded position. The addition of leaf mould at planting is necessary. It can also be grown in ericaceous soil. Remove faded flowers and, in winter, remove old stems.

The Clethra alnifolia is ideal in ericaceous soil flower beds or at the base of large deciduous trees. It also tolerates growing in a pot, making it suitable for filling a terrace or patio.