Native to the Eastern US, Clethra acuminata is a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub is suitable as an understory plant in rich, acid woodlands. Also known as Mountain Sweet-pepperbush, It grows 6-12’ tall on average (up to 20ft)  and with age its outer bark exfoliates to reveal a cinnamon-colored inner bark. The small white flowers bloom from mid-July to August, are borne on 3-8” long spires, and open from the base to the tip. It prefers a moist, well drained, humus-rich, acidic soil but will adapt to drier sites. Cinnamon clethra is tolerant of shady conditions though it flowers best with more sun. Locate in a sheltered location in colder areas. 

About Clethra acuminata