Clethra alnifolia Ripple Effect
Clethra alnifolia 'Ripple Effect' photo courtesy of Proven Winners
Summersweet, Sweet Pepperbush

‘Ripple Effect®’ Summersweet is a unique selection of clethra known for its distinctive rippled foliage and highly fragrant white flower spikes. The narrow, upright flower clusters appear in mid to late summer and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its textured leaves add visual interest throughout the season, making it a standout in woodland gardens and naturalized plantings.

  • Height: 90-120 cm (3-4 ft)
  • Spread: 90-120 cm (3-4 ft)
  • Hardiness: Zone 4
  • Sun or Shade: full sun to part shade
  • Bloom Time: mid to late summer
  • Leaf Colour: green
  • Bloom Colour: white
  • Critter Resistance: generally deer resistant
  • Nature Attraction: bees, butterflies and hummingbirds

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Grow in full sun to part shade in moist, acidic, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Clethra thrives in consistently moist conditions and tolerates clay soils and wet sites better than many shrubs, making it excellent for rain gardens and low areas. Minimal pruning is needed; remove dead stems in early spring if necessary.

New from Proven Winners for 2026
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