Virginia Sweetspire
Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet'

Native to the southeastern U.S.
Mature Height: 3-5 ft.
Growth Rate: Moderate
Soil: Moist, woodland areas are best but it can withstand drier conditions once established. Very adaptable!
Light Requirements: Shade/partial sun
Foliage: Deciduous (will hold its leaves in mild winters), 4" long oval, dark-green leaves, turning to dark red or purple in the fall
Flower/Fruit: 4"-6" racemes of creamy white flowers in late spring and early summer
Hardy to Zone 5

This easy-to-grow shrub will thrive in shade and can even tolerate sun in moist conditions. It grows in the wild along creek banks and forms thickets where it is happiest. It is reported to be invasive but I've not experienced that problem in my garden. If you have loose, moist, rich soil, that should be a factor you need to be aware of.

This is an outstanding adaptable shrub that offers beautiful slightly fragrant flowers in late spring and striking red to purple leaves in the wall. Here in my north Alabama garden, the leaves hang on throughout the winter. Beautiful along streams and other water features or can be used as a low hedge along pathways and driveways.

'Henry's Garnet' is the most popular variety at nurseries. I've just planted a newer cultivar called 'Little Henry' which is a smaller growing sweetspire.

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