CLETHRA ALNIFOLIA SIXTEEN CANDLES / SUMMERSWEET

CLETHRA ALNIFOLIA ‘SIXTEEN CANDLES’ / SUMMERSWEET

A Compact, Fragrant Shrub with Abundant White Blooms

Clethra alnifolia ‘Sixteen Candles’ is a dwarf variety of Summersweet, known for its upright, candle-like spikes of fragrant white flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. With its compact size, glossy green foliage, and exceptional adaptability, this low-maintenance shrub is perfect for small gardens, borders, and wildlife-friendly landscapes.

Why Choose ‘Sixteen Candles’ Summersweet?

• Profuse White Blooms: Dense, upright flower spikes resemble glowing candles, adding elegance to the summer garden.
• Pollinator Magnet: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its sweetly scented flowers.
• Late-Season Interest: Provides a fresh burst of color and fragrance when many other plants have faded.
• Compact & Low Maintenance: Naturally neat, rounded form requires little pruning or upkeep.

Key Features:

• Fragrant White Flowers: Long-lasting blooms provide a delightful scent from mid to late summer.
• Dwarf, Rounded Growth Habit: Stays compact and tidy, making it ideal for small spaces.
• Glossy Green Foliage: Leaves turn a vibrant golden-yellow in fall for seasonal appeal.
• Deer & Disease Resistant: Unappealing to deer and resistant to common pests.

Specifications:

• Plant Size: Typically grows 2–3 feet tall and wide.
• Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–9, adaptable to various climates.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil but tolerates wet conditions.

Ideal Uses:

• Foundation Plantings: Compact size makes it great for walkways, patios, and entryways.
• Pollinator & Wildlife Gardens: Supports beneficial insects and provides habitat for birds.
• Rain Gardens & Wet Areas: Thrives in moist soils, making it perfect for water’s edge plantings.
• Borders & Mixed Shrub Plantings: Complements other summer-flowering perennials and shrubs.

Clethra alnifolia ‘Sixteen Candles’ is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a fragrant, wildlife-friendly shrub with a compact, low-maintenance form. With its abundant white flowers, adaptability, and seasonal interest, it’s a standout addition to any landscape.