I know what you’re thinking: “I love the deer resistant, wet tolerant, late summer blooming, multi-season interest, and shade adaptability of Clethra alnifolia, but I just don’t have the space for another 10-foot shrub.” Sound like you? Well, what if I were to tell you it could be yours for half the size? ‘Compacta’ Summersweet maxes out at a humble 3’ - 4’ in all directions, with a tighter branching habit and the same abundant, proliferous candelabras of spicy-but-kinda-sweet-scented inflorescences. You'll take it? Great!
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; medium to wet soil
Size: 3’- 4’ tall; 3’- 4’ wide
Zone: 4 - 9
Wildlife Value: Foliage provides shelter for birds; flowers are highly attractive to pollinators like butterflies, bees and hummingbirds
Photos: Dave Korbonits