Summer-Sweet

Other names

Sweet Pepperbush, Summer-Sweet Clethra

Growth habit

Shrub

Perennation

Long-lived polycarpic perennial

Source of plant

Klyn Nurseries

Description

'Sixteen Candles' is a summersweet cultivar that is noted for its erect, candle-like flower spikes and compact size. It is a densely-branched, rounded, suckering deciduous shrub that typically grows 3-5' tall and features narrow, fluffy, bottlebrush-like, terminal spires (racemes to 6" long) of extremely fragrant, creamy white flowers which bloom on the current year's growth for approximately 4-6 weeks in mid-summer. Flower spires of the species may be erect, horizontal or arching, whereas those of this cultivar are more upright and candle-like. Toothed, ovate-oblong, glossy dark green leaves (to 4" long) turn a variable but generally attractive yellow/golden brown in fall. Flowers give way to dark brown seed capsules which may persist well into winter. Flowers are very attractive to butterflies and bees. Somewhat unique among summer-flowering shrubs because of its ability to bloom in shady locations.

USDA Hardiness Zone

3

Special characteristics

flowering season, fragrance