itea virginica

Itea virginica, commonly known as Virginia sweetspire, is a deciduous shrub native to the eastern United States. It thrives in moist conditions, often found along streams and in wetlands. This versatile plant offers year-round beauty, making it a popular choice for home gardens.

During late spring to early summer, sweetspire bursts into bloom with fragrant, white flowers cascading from its arching branches. The slender, bottlebrush-like spikes add a delicate touch to the landscape. In autumn, the green foliage transforms into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a stunning contrast before falling.

Several cultivars of sweetspire offer unique characteristics to suit various garden needs. Here are a few popular choices, including the two you mentioned:

Little Henry: Compact size (3-4 feet tall) ideal for smaller gardens.

Sprich: Showy, fragrant flowers with excellent fall color.

Merlot: Deep red fall foliage, even in partial shade.

Scentlandia: Distinctive fragrance reminiscent of hyacinths, good for smaller gardens (4-5 feet tall).

Scarlet Beauty: Known for its outstanding scarlet fall foliage, tolerates wet sites (3-4 feet tall).

Height: 3′ – 6′ (depending on cultivar)

Width: 3′ – 6′  feet (spreads by suckers)

Light: Full sun to part shade.

Flowers: White, fragrant racemes in late spring/early summer.

Fall color: Red, orange, yellow.

Water: Moist soil, tolerates wet conditions.

Fertilizer: Light application in spring is optional.

Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

With its low maintenance requirements, stunning blooms, and vibrant fall foliage, Itea virginica is a valuable addition to any garden. Choose the cultivar that best suits your needs and enjoy its beauty year-round!

See: Shrubs and Roses

Category: Sun Perennials – Sun Plants – Sunny Plants – Shrubs – Deciduous Shrubs – Sweetspire near me – Itea