Itea, a native deciduous shrub, grows well in a variety of conditions. Also called Virginia sweetspire, this compact bush has great multi-seasonal appeal. Virginia sweetspire is a deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub in the Itea family (Iteaceae).
Its native range extends from New Jersey to Florida and west to Missouri, Louisiana and East Texas. In its native habitat, it is found in moist woods, swamps, wet pine barrens and along small stream banks. Itea (Virginia Sweetspire) is a durable native shrub that grows well in either sun or shade and tolerates drought as well as flooding rains. It thrives in almost any soil type, including clay, and is hardy in all but the coldest climates.
itea shrub, Itea virginica, commonly called Virginia sweetspire, is an erect, rounded, broad-spreading, deciduous shrub with arching branches. Typically grows 3-4' (less frequently to 5') tall with a similar spread. Itea is a genus of about 10 species of shrubs and small trees, commonly called sweetspires. The leaves are alternate. Flowers are small, with 5 sepals and 5 petals, borne in racemes or spikes.
itea shrub, The genus is native to eastern Asia, with one deciduous species from eastern North America. Itea virginica, commonly known as Virginia Sweetspire, is a graceful, deciduous shrub celebrated for its elegant arching habit, cascading white flower spikes, and spectacular fall foliage. Itea Shrub - How To Care For Itea Sweetspire | Gardening Know How Itea is a native shrub with multi-season appeal, from unique bloom sprays to fall color to drawing pollinators and beneficial insects. Join gardening expert Katherine Rowe in exploring the merits of a small shrub with big benefits. Itea shrubs offer multi-season interest. Beginning with bottlebrush-like flower spikes in summer, spectacular red foliage in autumn with the colorful foliage remaining well into winter.