Virginia Sweetspire

Itea virginica
Yes Phase 2 ยท Layering out Flowering & Structure Shrubs
โ˜€ Light
Sun to shade (adaptable)
๐Ÿ’ง Water
Moist; tolerates wet
๐Ÿ“ Mature size
3โ€“5 ft
๐ŸŒธ Bloom / interest
Fragrant white bottlebrush, late spring; crimson fall
๐Ÿƒ Foliage
Semi-evergreen
๐ŸŒŽ Native
Yes
๐ŸฆŒ Deer
Sometimes browsed
๐Ÿ›’ How many
5โ€“10

Why we want it

One of the few good shrubs that genuinely tolerates wet ground, with fragrant flowers and outstanding crimson fall color.

Where it goes in our yard

Pond edge and the low, wet beds where drainage is poor.

Planting & care

Nearly indestructible; spreads gently by suckers to colonize a bank. Cut back to shape as needed.

What to buy

'Henry's Garnet' (best fall color) or 'Little Henry' (compact).

Sourcing

Widely available.

Read more at NC State Extension โ†’