Best to allow the shrub to spread naturally for erosion control or plant many of them to serve as a ground cover.
Itea virginica
Sweetspire
Itea virginica - Sweetspire
Tips for Homeowners:
This shrub will spread by sending up new shoots (suckering), especially in moist conditions, so allow room to grow. Prune after flowering.
Rate this Plant:
The sweetly scented flowers will last for a long time in late spring to early summer. The foliage is attractive all season long, but the fall foliage will spotlight the landscape.
- Lightly fragrant flowers
- Brilliant fall color
- Rounded arching shape with clustered branches
Height: 3-6 ft
Spread: 3-6 ft
Zone: 5-9
Color: White
Interesting Notes about Sweetspire:
Virginia Sweetspire is not only beautiful it is forgiving. The shrub prefers at least 6 hours of sun but will do beautifully in shade. It is a native plant that prefers moist soils, but will adapt to drought conditions as long as it gets ample water during establishment.
Characteristics & Attributes
Attributes:
- Ground Cover
- Border or Bed
- Low Maintenance
- Naturalizing
- Fragrant
- Spring Bloomer
- Drought Tolerant
- Mass Planting
- Fall Color
Foliage Color:
- Purple
- Green
- Red
Exposure:
- Full Sun
- Partial Sun
Attracts Wildlife:
- Attracts Butterflies
Critter Resistance:
- Deer Resistant
Habit:
- Upright
Season of Interest (Flowering):
- Summer
- Spring
Season of Interest (Foliage):
- Fall
Soil Moisture:
- Wet Soil/Wetlands
- Moist, Well-Drained
- Average Water