Virginia Sweetspire

Itea virginica

Family:
Grossulariaceae

Lifecycle:
Perennial

Native or Introduced:
Native

Nutrient Removal Rating:
Low-Medium (polishing)

Wildlife Value:
Medium

Invasiveness:
Low

Rooted or Floating:
Rooted

Site Requirements:
Full sun to part shade

Maximum Water Depth:
12 inches

Plant Description:
Virginia sweetspire is a deciduous (sometimes semi-evergreen) shrub. Typically it grows to a height of 3-6 feet. It has a suckering and colonizing habit.

Leaves are green and finely serrated with pointed tips. Blades measure 2-4 inches in length and 1-1.25 inches in width. In the fall, leaves turn a mixture of orange, red, and yellow. Flowers occur in large groups. They are small and white with a light fragrance.

Virginia sweetspire grows in moist areas along streams and in swamps.

Additional reading:

• USDA