Home Prairie and Wetland Center
16245 S US Hwy 71
Belton, MO 64012
Tel: (816) 331-9738
Fax: (816) 331-9739

Itea virginica

Virginia Sweetspire

Click here for print friendly version.
Itea virginica (Virginia Sweetspire)

This shrub has slender upright branches that eventually arch over. It blooms in May or June with fragrant clusters of drooping creamy white flowers. In fall, the dark green leaves turn scarlet and remain showy for many weeks. The shrub is usually wider than tall.

Additional Information:


Height
3-5 Feet

spacer

Spread
4-6 Feet

spacer

Bloom/Seasonal Color
White


USDA Hardiness Zone 5-9

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Good Companions
Celandine Poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum), Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina), Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), Squaw-weed (Packera obovatus), Jacob's Ladder (Polemonium reptans), Wild Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens)

Characteristics & Attributes

Hydrologic Designation

OBL

Nature Attracting

Butterfly
Beneficial Insects

Season of Interest

Late (July-frost)
Mid (May-June)

Soil Moisture

High
Moderate

Special Uses

Fragrant

Sun Exposure

Full Sun
Shade
Medium Sun/Average Shade

USFS MO Ecological Map

Wildlife Benefit

Butterfly Nectar