Species clethra
white flowers with white stamens, yellow stigmas and dark-green leaves with green veins

clethra

Clethra pringlei

The Clethra pringlei, commonly known as Clethra, is an amazing plant species native to the American Southeast. This species produces a unique and eye-catching pale pink flower that is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Its long-lasting, sweet scent has earned it the nickname "summersweet." Not only is it beautiful, but it is also highly resistant to disease, drought, and animal grazing. It has an established root system and can help prevent erosion in areas where it's grown. Its flowers are also a valuable source of nectar for bees and other beneficial pollinators. Clethra is an incredible species, not only visually appealing, but also beneficial for the environment.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Clethra pringlei should be watered in small amounts every 3 to 7 days during its active growth period (from spring to early fall). During the wintertime, watering should be reduced and can be withheld for periods of up to 2 weeks. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not soggy, to prevent root rot and prevent the plant from dehydration. If the soil is light or sandy, more frequent light watering is recommended.

sunlight

Clethra pringlei, a species of shrubs, thrive in full sun. For maximum growth and flowering, this plant prefers 6 to 8 hours of full sunlight per day. They particularly thrive in warm climates, where the sun is strong and bright for long periods of time. In cooler climates, they may benefit from more protection from direct sunlight. They should be planted in a spot that gets sun for most of the day but provide protection during the hottest and coldest parts of the day.

pruning

Clethra pringlei should be pruned in late spring or early summer after flowering has finished. Pruning should be light in order to maintain the natural shape of the shrub. When doing so, it is important to make sure that the cuts are made quickly and cleanly to remove diseased, damaged, or dead stems. Pruning should be done carefully to avoid damage to healthy stems. Care should also be taken to not prune too much in a single season, as this can weaken the plant. It is recommended to only prune around 10-20% of the plant each year. Removing the spent flower heads will promote better flowering for the next season.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Clethra pringlei typically starts flowering in July.

Hardiness Map