Clethra alnifolia 'Hummingbird' – Compact Sweet Pepperbush for Small Gardens

Sweet Pepperbush 'Hummingbird'

Clethra alnifolia 'Hummingbird' (pronounced KLETH-rah all-nih-FOE-lee-ah) is a delightful, compact cultivar of the native sweet pepperbush. This upright, suckering shrub produces creamy white, intensely fragrant flowers with a spicy clove scent in dense, upright spikes that persist for four to six weeks from July into August. More compact than the species, it matures at just 3 feet tall and wide, making it ideal for smaller garden spaces.

Seasonal Interest

After flowering, the blooms mature into spikes of dark brown capsules that provide subtle winter interest. The oval, glossy dark green foliage turns a pleasant yellow in autumn, extending the seasonal display.

Wildlife Value

A favorite of bees and other pollinators, this rounded shrub also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. The species is native to the eastern United States, so it supports local ecosystems.

Growing Conditions & Care

'Hummingbird' thrives in consistently moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial or dappled shade, but it is highly adaptable to other conditions. Notably, it flowers more prolifically than the species even in shady locations. For maintenance, remove some of the oldest wood at the base in winter; vigorous new growth will replace it in spring. It blooms on current-year growth.

Propagation

Sow seed at 43° to 54°F in spring or autumn. Alternatively, root greenwood cuttings in early summer.

Potential Problems

Fungal dieback and root rot can occasionally occur.

Quick Reference

• Height/Spread: 1–3 ft.
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Maintenance: Moderate
• Bloom Time: Summer to early fall
• Flower Color: White
• Uses: Beds, borders, woodland gardens
• Type: Shrub