Description

General aspect and origins - Clethra arborea is a small evergreen tree that is native to Madeira. It can be up to about 20 ft (6 m) tall, and has white fragrant flowers that look like lily of the valley, hence its common name.
Leaves - This tree has a dense and evergreen foliage. Leaves are glossy, and can be up to 4 in long.
Flowers - Flowers are small and white, and are grouped in terminal panicles. They are fragrant, and look like lily of the valley. This tree blooms mainly in early and mid-summer.

Culture

Clethra arborea dislikes strong winds, and should be protected from hard frosts. However, it can withstand temperatures down to about 27°F. (-3°C)
Soil - The lily of the valley tree prefers a moist, acidic and well-drained ground. It dislikes alcaline soils.

Propagation

Clethra arborea is propagated by seeds, cuttings or air-layers.