Summersweet

Summersweet lives up to its name with upright bottlebrushes of intensely fragrant white or blush-pink blooms that appear in mid to late summer—just when other shrubs are taking a break. This nectar-rich native shrub draws in bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, helping to fill a seasonal gap in pollinator resources. Its glossy green leaves light up golden-yellow in fall, extending its ornamental value. Typically growing 3–8 feet tall, Summersweet’s dense, tidy form makes it an excellent choice for borders, rain gardens, or near patios where its fragrance can be enjoyed up close.

Why choose Summersweet?

• Late-season blooms that perfume the garden and sustain pollinators
• Compact, upright habit great for small gardens or as a low hedge
• Tolerates wet conditions—ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, or soggy spots
• Excellent fall color with glowing yellow foliage
  

Maintenance Tips

• Prune in early spring to shape or rejuvenate; flowers form on new wood
• Mulch annually to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds
• Water during droughts until well-established, especially in sunny sites
• Remove suckers if you want to limit its spread or maintain a single clump
  

• Prune in late winter or early spring if shaping is desired; blooms form on new growth.
• Mulch annually to retain soil moisture and improve soil structure.
• Divide suckers if you want to manage spread or propagate new plants.
• Tolerates wet feet—excellent for rain gardens and bioswales.