Itea virginica Common names include Virginia Sweetspire, Tassel-White, Virginia Willow An erect, rounded, broad-spreading, deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub with arching branches. Typically grows 3-6' (less frequently to 8') tall with a similar spread. Features fragrant, tiny white flowers borne in cylindrical, drooping racemes (3-6" long) which cover the shrub with bloom in late spring to early summer. Oval, dark green leaves (1-4" long) turn varying shades of red, orange and gold in autumn. Long period of fall color, with leaves often persisting on the plants until early winter. Attracts birds, nectar source for bees, butterflies, moths, and many beneficial insects. Native to wooded steam banks, swamps, and low pine barrens in Texas, east to Florida, and north to New Jersey. Easily grown in average, medium to wet moisture soil in full sun to part shade. Can be used for erosion control. Adaptable to shade, especially in Texas. Prefers moist, humus rich, acidic soils, but tolerates a wide range of soil conditions. Can grow in swamps and other areas of poor drainage. Blooms best and has better fall color if grown in an area that receives full sun at least part of the day. Can form dense colonies by root suckering if left unchecked. Prune as needed after flowering. Height: 3'-6'Spread: 3'-5'Bloom: April-JuneLight: Full Sun-Dappled ShadeWater: Medium-HighZone: 5-9Origin: Texas, central and eastern U.S.
