Mexican Clethra A quite rare and rather tender shrub from NE Mexico, Clethra pringlei is a large, slow-growing, broad-leaved evergreen shrub or small tree. The broad, fleshy leaves emerge bronze, gradually turning deep green. Long, showy racemes of white, sometimes pink, blossom, strongly scented of cinnamon and attractive to butterflies, appear in summer. Mexican clethra must have lime-free soil, and as it is both large and half-hardy, it can be quite challenging to grow, especially in colder areas. Site: ShelteredSoils: Consistently moist but well-drained, acidic soilPosition: Sun or partial shadeSeason of interest: All yearHardiness: Half-hardyHeight to 12’ (3.6m) Spread to 7’ (2m)