Ruby Spice Clethra, scientifically known as Clethra alnifolia ‘Ruby Spice’, is a charming deciduous shrub that can bring beauty and fragrance to any garden or landscape. This particular variety of Clethra typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet, although in some cases it may reach up to 8 feet. The shrub has a rounded shape with dense branching, giving it a full and bushy appearance. Its growth habit is characterized by suckering, which means that it can produce new shoots from the base of the plant, creating a clumping effect.
One of the most enchanting features of the Ruby Spice Clethra is its exquisite bloom, which occurs in the mid to late summer. The flowers are small and delicate, but they gather together in narrow, upright panicles or racemes that can be 2-6 inches long. These panicles are composed of numerous individual white flowers that emit a sweet and captivating fragrance. The fragrance can be particularly strong, making it an excellent choice for gardens or landscapes where you want to create a sensory experience.
In terms of maintenance, the Ruby Spice Clethra is relatively easy to care for. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers partial shade to full sun. This adaptable shrub can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils. It is also relatively tolerant of wet conditions, making it a suitable choice for areas with poor drainage or near water features such as ponds or streams.
Pruning is not typically required for the Ruby Spice Clethra, but you can trim it to shape or remove any dead or damaged branches. It is generally recommended to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This will help promote a more compact and tidy appearance.
In my personal experience, I have found the Ruby Spice Clethra to be a delightful addition to my garden. Its compact size and rounded shape make it suitable for smaller spaces, and the fragrance of its blooms is simply enchanting. I have planted it near my patio where I can enjoy the sweet scent while sitting outside on warm summer evenings. The bees and butterflies are also attracted to the flowers, adding to the overall beauty and biodiversity of my garden.
To summarize, the Ruby Spice Clethra is a rounded, suckering, deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet, with the potential to reach 8 feet. Its dense branching and fragrant white flowers in upright panicles make it a charming addition to any garden or landscape. With its adaptability to various soil types and tolerance for wet conditions, it is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Overall, the Ruby Spice Clethra is a small but captivating shrub that can bring beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space.
