Itea


(Virginia Sweetspire)

Itea virginica is an erect shrub with clustered branches and fragrant, early summer blooming, upright flower racemes. The creamy-white flowers are formed on the previous season's growth, so pruning should follow flowering. Itea's foliage turns scarlet to crimson in the fall. 

Itea is a good choice for moist areas of the garden or used as a border. It will hold its leaves until late in the year. Itea will be fuller in sunny locations but can also be used in partial shade. It has a medium growth rate and will grow to a height of 3 to 5 feet with a spread of 4 to 6 feet. Usually Itea is wider than high.   

Some varieties to look for:
Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' 
Itea virginica 'Little Henry'
 

Itea virginica 'Sarah Eve'