‘Ruby Spice’ is a cultivated variety of the eastern coastal U.S. native Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia). It was selected for its long-lasting, fade-proof, dark rosy-pink flowers and its tidy, upright oval growth habit. Blooming occurs in the midsummer lull, which is a blessing for gardeners and butterflies alike. A powerful, heavenly fragrance emanates from the 4" 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 ‘Ruby Spice’ 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, ‘Gold Standard‘ Coreopsis, ‘Henry Eiler’s‘ Sweet Coneflower, Turtlehead, or many more! Many of the companions of ‘Ruby Spice’ Summersweet also make excellent choices for rain gardens or pollinator gardens.
Sources:
Manual of Woody Landscape Plants by Michael A. Dirr
Missouri Botanical Garden
The Morton Arboretum
