Clethra 'Hummingbird'

Clethra alnifolia "Hummingbird"

$24.00 Sold out

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 5-9

Clethra alnifolia and the southern Clethra tomentosa are stoloniferous deciduous shrubs commonly called Summersweet or Sweet Pepperbush. They form colonies in moist acid soil and make good garden subjects. They are valued for their terminal spikes of fragrant white flowers in summer. Plant in sun or semi-shade and provide adequate moisture. This compact and floriferous selection spreads vigorously by rhizomes and forms large colonies. Flowers open earlier than typical for the species. A selection made by the late Fred Galle of Callaway Gardens, Georgia. Dirr says it is "one of the finest, compact deciduous shrubs available to gardeners." Clethra alnifolia is native to eastern U.S.
Plant Specs
  • Zones: 5 - 9
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Acid and Moist
  • Height at Maturity: 30 - 40 Inches
  • Spread at Maturity: 6 - 8 Feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate

Deciduous
Flower/Foliage

Flower Structure: Produces fragrant, white flower spikes.

Blooming Season: Blooms in mid to late summer, usually from July to August.

Color: The flowers are pure white, creating a striking visual display against the dark green foliage.

White, fragrant, racemes, summer
Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to full sun. While it can tolerate full shade, flowering is more prolific in full sun to partial shade.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in moist, acidic, well-draining soil. It prefers a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. Adding organic matter such as compost can improve soil fertility and structure. It can tolerate wet soils and is suitable for rain gardens and boggy areas.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is important to maintain adequate moisture, particularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Prefers moderate temperatures and can tolerate both humid and dry conditions. It is adaptable to a range of climates within its hardiness zones.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and abundant flowering. An annual application of compost or well-rotted manure can further enhance soil fertility.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the shrub. Light pruning can help promote a denser growth habit and more prolific flowering. Remove spent flower spikes after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew. If pests are detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Pickup currently unavailable at Aiken Nursery

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.