Summersweet
Clethra alnifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Clethra alnifolia (Summersweet) is a native deciduous shrub blooming with fragrant white flower spikes in July and August across eastern North America from Maine to Florida and west to Texas.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Summersweet as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–96" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, CT, DE, FL and 17 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Summersweet is a native deciduous shrub that produces fragrant white flower spikes in mid to late summer when few other shrubs are blooming. It forms a well-behaved, rounded shape and adapts well to various soil conditions, making it reliable for landscaping. The attractive dark green foliage turns golden yellow in fall before dropping.
Growing Summersweet
Grow Summersweet in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 36 to 96 inches tall and spread 36 to 96 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Summersweet is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Can spread by suckers if not maintained
- Winter appearance is bare but tidy
Wildlife value
The fragrant summer blooms are magnets for bees, butterflies, and moths during peak growing season. Birds also appreciate the small seeds that follow the flowers.
Common questions
- When does Clethra alnifolia bloom?
- Summersweet blooms during July and August, producing fragrant white flower spikes that attract numerous pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Clethra alnifolia?
- The fragrant flowers of Summersweet attract bees, butterflies, and moths, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens.
- Where is Clethra alnifolia native?
- Summersweet is native to 21 eastern states from Maine south to Florida and west to Texas, thriving in coastal plain and piedmont regions.
- What growing conditions does Summersweet prefer?
- Clethra alnifolia tolerates full sun to partial shade and prefers medium to high moisture conditions, making it ideal for rain gardens and wet areas.
- Is Summersweet toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Summersweet as toxic to livestock.
- Is Summersweet HOA-friendly?
- Summersweet is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Summersweet? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz