Itea virginica (Virginia Sweetspire)

Itea virginica (Virginia Sweetspire) white flower spike growing tall among soft green leaves on branches

Botanical name: Itea virginica

Common name: Virginia Sweetspire

Family: Grossulariaceae

Origin: Eastern America

USDA Zone: 9-10

Plant form: Large bush

Mature height: 5-10 ft

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Regular

Flower color: White and off-white

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Foliage: Deciduous

Fragrance: Fragrant; perfume plant

Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

In the wild this plant is found in wet areas, those rich, moist soils along stream banks; but it's very adaptable in the garden. In spring blooms with sweetly scented, pure white flowers that cover the entire plant. In fall the foliage is a bright red and is most striking when planted in groups. This shrub has a low-mounded shape and generally grows to 18-24" with a 3" spread. Long pendulous spikes of fragrant white flowers distinguishes this superior plant. Valuable low care mounding shrub for foundations and back of the shaded border. Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions.