Clethra alnifolia Ruby Spice

A lovely plant for dappled shade in woodland or a shrub border, Clethra alnifolia Ruby Spice is a vigorous, medium-sized, deciduous shrub with a suckering habit. Glossy, dark blue-green leaves colour yellow in autumn. In late summer and autumn, Short spikes of clove-scented, rich pink, bell-shaped flowers appear; unlike with some cultivars, these do not fade. Must have lime-free soil; an easy, disease-free plant if given the right conditions. Clethra alnifolia Ruby Spice holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Well-drained but moisture-retentive acid soil
Position: Partial shade
Season of interest: Summer, Autumn
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: to 5’ (1.5m) Spread: to 5’ (1.5m)