Virginia sweetspire (Itea Virginica) is a deciduous shrub that thrives in moist, acidic soils and part shade to sun—making it ideal for streambanks, rain gardens, and other damp areas. In late spring, it produces fragrant white flower spikes that attract pollinators, and its foliage turns brilliant red in fall. It spreads by suckers to form attractive thickets, offering erosion control, wildlife habitat, and moderate deer resistance. 

Scientific Name: Itea Virginica

Origin: NJ, South Florida, and west to Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky

Height: 3-6 feet

Spread: 3-6 feet

Light: Part Shade

Water: High

Bloom: April to June

USDA Zones: 5 - 9