Clethra alnifolia ‘Ruby Spice’ - fragrant shrub with intense pink flowers

Clethra alnifolia ‘Ruby Spice’ is a highly prized perennial ornamental shrub variety, valued for its spectacular summer flowering. It produces dense spikes of deep pink, fragrant flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Unlike the typical form, which has white flowers, ‘Ruby Spice’ stands out for the unique, long-lasting color of its inflorescences, making it one of the most decorative Clethra varieties.

🌿 Botanical characteristics:

• Full name: Clethra alnifolia ‘Ruby Spice’
• Family: Clethraceae
• Origin: North America
• Leaves: Oval, green in summer, turning golden yellow in autumn
• Flowers: Deep pink, fragrant, in long spikes measuring 10–15 cm, appearing in July–August
• Growth habit: Compact, medium-sized shrub 

🌞 Growing conditions:

• Light: Prefers partial shade, but also tolerates full sun in moist soils
• Soil: Acidic, moist, and well-drained; ideal for cooler, shaded areas of the garden
• Watering: Regular; prefers consistently moist soil
• Hardiness: Very good, tolerates temperatures down to –25°C
• Maintenance: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain its compact shape

✨ Why choose it:

• Deep pink, fragrant flowers that attract pollinators
• Spectacular summer flowering, when few shrubs provide color
• Hardy, resilient shrub, adapted to Romania’s climate
• Decorative foliage that turns a beautiful golden yellow in autumn
• Ideal for natural gardens, borders, and partially shaded areas

⚠️ Note: For abundant flowering, planting in acidic soil or amending the soil with acidic peat is recommended.

Height including pot: 50 cm

Note: During the cold season, garden plants are sold without leaves and cut back to encourage branching.