BlueBell Arboretum & Nursery

Mail order trees, shrubs, conifers and woody climbers

Description

An unusual species native to the wooded hills and mountains of China and Japan, Clethra barbinervis develops a richly coloured stem which slowly peels to reveal lavender, grey and cream bark. The leaves are pale green and can develop good red, orange and yellow tints in a crisp autumn. In mid summer racemes of beautiful, fragrant, white flowers appear which are popular with insects and butterflies. A Clethra with year round interest once established.

Features

• Common name: Japanese Pepper Bush.
• Position: Full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Fertile, acidic soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy.
• Flowering Period: July - August.
• Flower Colour: White
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Medium sized shrub.
• Height: 2 m (6 ft)
• Spread: 2 m (6 ft)
• Notes: Prune to remove dead or damaged stems in early spring.
• Supplied Size: 3L containers (40 - 60 cm tall)