‘Hummingbird’ is a cultivated variety of the eastern coastal U.S. native Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia). It was selected for its compact size and habit and its outstandingly abundant blooms. This is a slowly spreading variety with a mounded form, perfect for smaller gardens with either a formal or informal style. Maintaining its boundaries and shape is easily done by an annual pruning in late winter or early spring, as the flowers are produced on new wood. Blooming occurs during the midsummer lull, which is a blessing for gardeners and butterflies alike. A powerful, heavenly fragrance emanates from the extra large 6" long inflorescences that resemble the blooms of the non-native Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii) and which attract at least as many butterflies! Many other pollinators are found at the nectar-rich flowers as well, including Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.
The many ornamental features this shrub has to offer, along with its easy-going attitude that can thrive in full sun or shade, and its compact form, make it a plant that no garden should be without! The deep green foliage of spring and summer turns brilliantly yellow in fall and pairs beautifully with many classic garden perennials such as ‘Purple Dome‘ Aster, ‘October Skies‘ Aster, ‘Phantom‘ Dwarf Joe Pye Weed, ‘Henry Eiler’s‘ Sweet Coneflower, ‘Hot Lips‘ Turtlehead, or many more! Many of the companions of ‘Hummingbird’ Summersweet also make excellent choices for rain gardens or pollinator gardens.
Sources:
Manual of Woody Landscape Plants by Michael A. Dirr
Missouri Botanical Garden
Chicago Botanic Garden
