Clethra fargesii

Chinese clethra is a deciduous shrub in the Clethraceae family native to China in woodlands and mountainous regions between 4000 and 7000 feet.  It grows to 10 feet in height with a 6 foot spread when mature.

Chinese clethra prefers partial shade, moist, organically rich, acidic, lime-free, and well-drained soil and does not tolerate dry summer heat and drought. The plant can be easily propagated from stem cuttings and suckers will tend to form colonies, making it an excellent hedge. Prune in late winter as it flowers on new growth.

It features a smooth, marbled brown to cinnamon bark that peels and delicate, heavily fragrant, flowers. The numerous white flowers on 5 to 7-inch panicles blossom in mid to late summer when other shrubs are not. The flowers contain high-quality nectar and pollen that attract butterflies and bees.  The plant has sharply serrated, lustrous, and dark green leaves that produce a bronze-red to maroon fall color.

The plant will provide 3 seasons of interest. Use in the border or small groups, as a specimen, in the woodland garden and along ponds and streams.

Insect, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. If sited in dry or hot locations, it can be susceptible to spider mites.