About
Itea virginica, the sweet spire, is a deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub to around 1.5 m with mid-green leaves that colour brilliantly in autumn, and upright or slightly arching spikes of fragrant, creamy-white flowers in midsummer. One of the most under-appreciated of summer-flowering shrubs for a moist, sunny or partly shaded border.
About the genus
Itea are deciduous or evergreen shrubs or small trees with simple, alternate leaves and small, white, cream or pale-green flowers in drooping racemes or spikes, often fragrant. Grown as ornamental garden shrubs in sunny or partly shaded positions.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, hedging, specimen planting.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
PruningPrune after flowering or in late winter for shape.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.