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Clethra barbinervis

Clethra barbinervis
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleshrubsedibleedible leafnative asiaperennialshrub
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Clethra barbinervis (Clethra barbinervis) — botanical photograph
Pl. 08D3 — Clethra barbinervis
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Overview

Clethra barbinervis, a deciduous shrub native to China and Japan, thrives in moist environments with light or partial sun exposure. This plant is native to regions including China North-Central, China South-Central, China Southeast, Japan, and Korea. Known for its ornamental value and edibility, Clethra barbinervis is prized for its small white flowers that bloom in late summer, creating a fragrant display. The leaves are edible and can be used in various culinary applications, typically prepared by steeping in water to make a tea. This shrub can grow up to 3 meters in height, making it an attractive addition to gardens or natural landscapes. Its hardiness spans zones 4-8, ensuring it can withstand a range of climates within its native range. While not medicinal, Clethra barbinervis offers practical benefits through its ornamental and culinary uses.

Quick answers

What is Clethra barbinervis?

Clethra barbinervis, a deciduous shrub native to China and Japan, thrives in moist environments with light or partial sun exposure. This plant is native to regions including China North-Central, China South-Central, China Southeast, Japan, and Korea.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Clethra barbinervis thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can grow up to 3 meters tall. For propagation, use leaves as the edible part. Ensure the plant receives adequate moisture, especially during dry periods, and maintain its preferred soil conditions for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Clethra barbinervis for the first time

8steps

Start with planting Clethra barbinervis in a sunny spot and ensure it gets enough water.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Clethra barbinervis plants, garden tools, mulch.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Clethra barbinervis in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with well-draining soil that's light (sandy) or medium. Ensure good sunlight exposure.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant Clethra barbinervis from containers directly into the garden, spacing them about 3 meters apart.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist. Monitor for any signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide regular water during dry spells. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune Clethra barbinervis in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's size.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Clethra barbinervis are edible and can be used fresh or dried. They are typically prepared by steeping in water to make a tea.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 5 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Clethra barbinervis (Clethra barbinervis) — botanical photograph
Clethra barbinervis (Clethra barbinervis)
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