Itea virginica L.

Growth Form

Itea virginica L. is a deciduous multi-stemmed shrub.

Size and Stem Characteristics

It grows to 2.5 m (8.2 ft) tall and 1.5 m (4.9 ft) wide, with arching stems that bear alternate, simple leaves. Stems branch infrequently, only branching near the tops.

Clonal Growth and Leaf Retention

This species suckers and forms colonies, and may become semi-evergreen when grown in favorable conditions.

Flower Characteristics

Its white or cream flowers grow in downward-pointing, slightly curved spikes, and bloom in summer.

Autumn Foliage

In autumn, its leaves turn shades of red.

Cold Hardiness

It is hardy to temperatures as low as at least −29 °C (−20 °F).

Natural Distribution

The natural range of I. virginica runs from New Jersey south to Florida, and extends west to Texas and Oklahoma.

Habitat

It has been found growing in shaded, wet habitats including swamps, wooded floodplains, pine forests, and hydric hammocks.