Clethra fargesii, commonly known as Farges’ clethra or Chinese clethra, is a deciduous shrub native to the understory of mixed forests, thickets, and along stream banks in central and western China. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) and a width of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters). The plant features upright panicles of fragrant, white flowers that bloom in mid to late summer, which are particularly showy and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The bark is exfoliating and can add winter interest in a garden setting.

Farges’ clethra is valued for its sweetly scented flowers, which can enhance sensory gardens. It is also appreciated for its adaptability to a range of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils, provided they have medium drainage. This shrub thrives in part shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as an understory plant in larger landscapes. It requires medium amounts of water and benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and should be monitored for signs of infection. Farges’ clethra is not known for being invasive and is a low-maintenance addition to a garden, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape.CC BY-SA 4.0