Looking for a fragrant, long blooming shrub that is not only lovely to behold but is easy to care for?

Clethra, or summersweet, is our recommendation. A carefree shrub with glossy, deep-green leaves that turn vibrant yellow in fall. Pruning is rarely necessary because it has a tidy, compact growth habit. Bottlebrush-like clusters of tiny, bell-shaped flowers appear in late summer. Our favorites are the white flowering ‘Hummingbird’ and ‘Rosea’, a lovely pink variety. This native shrub is a favorite of bees, butterflies and homeowners, and a wonderful addition to the border or woodland edge.