Ruby Spice Summersweet

$14.97 – $29.97

Ruby Spice Summersweet does well in moist and clay soils. Will tolerate full sun only if consistent moisture is provided. Fragrant rose colored flower spikes adorn glossy green foliage in mid to late summer after other shrubs have already stopped blooming. Ruby Spice Summersweet is a compact shrub perfect for smaller gardens. Flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Foliage is a beautiful gold color in fall.

• Scientific Name: Clethra alnifolia ‘Ruby Spice’
• USDA Zone: 4 – 9
• Average Height: 4′ – 6′
• Average Width: 3′ – 5′
• Sun Exposure: Partial to full sun

Planting/Care Instructions

Before planting, have your soil tested to see what amendments are needed. Click this link to check your frost dates: Frost Dates. Check the light preferences for your plant and choose your plot accordingly. Even if you have the perfect soil and ideal location, you still need to choose the right time of the year depending on what you are planting.

When you receive your plant, soak the root ball in water for 20 minutes upon arrival before planting or potting. Gently break up the root ball. This will help the roots of the plant to grow out into the soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. Fill in the hole tightly with soil to avoid any air pockets. Add a bit of slow-release fertilizer to help new plants to grow quickly. Add the recommended amount per fertilizer instructions. Be sure to water your plants until they are established. In addition, pull weeds out when they appear. They take nutrients from the soil.

Additionally, certain plants may need staking. Whenever they become too heavy to stand on their own, add bamboo stakes for the plants to lean against or tie up for support.
Prune plants as needed to encourage growth. If you have trouble keeping up with your pruners, check out our locally hand-made leather pruner holster here.

Lastly, enjoy your Ruby Spice Summersweet and your time in the garden!