Virginia Sweetspire
Itea virginica

Photo by James Reveal, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Summary
Sweetspire is a versatile, undemanding small shrub for sun or shade. In natural habitats, it’s found primarily in moist soils along stream banks and floodplains, but it can also handle drier spots once established. Its brilliant red fall color and mounding shape make it a great native alternative to Japanese barberry (burning bush). While the straight species can be hard to find, cultivars like ‘Henry’s Garnet’ are usually readily available.
More Details
FAMILY
Iteaceae (Sweetspire)
BLOOM TIME
May-June
FLOWER
White, pink
MATURE SIZE
3-6 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Sun to shade
SOIL CONDITIONS
medium to wet
NATIVE STATUS
PA Native
Ecosystem Connections
Sweetspire’s showy racemes of white flowers attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators. It provides cover, nesting habitat, and seeds for birds. Deer-resistant.