Virginia Sweetspire
Itea virginica
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 20, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Virginia Sweetspire
Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica) is a native North American deciduous shrub bearing gracefully arching racemes of fragrant white flowers in early summer, followed by outstanding fall foliage in shades of scarlet, burgundy, and orange. Native to moist, woodland habitats of the eastern US, it forms a suckering, multi-stemmed clump with fine-textured foliage. Valued in rain gardens, woodland borders, and native plant landscapes. Starting at $26.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Loam, Clay, Acidic, Well-drained, Wet
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Adaptable to full sun through partial shade. In NE Florida, part shade or dappled afternoon shade is beneficial during the hottest months; plants in shadier spots may be taller and less floriferous but are still vigorous.
Moisture-loving but adaptable once established — tolerates periodic flooding and is excellent in rain gardens. In drier NE Florida landscapes, supplement irrigation during drought periods; established plants have good drought tolerance.
Prefers moist, acidic (pH 5.0–6.5) loamy or clay soils; avoid alkaline soils, which cause chlorosis. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Sandy NE Florida soils benefit from organic matter amendment at planting.
Similar needs
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Common questions
Is Virginia Sweetspire a good plant for St. Augustine?
Virginia Sweetspire is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-6 feet × 3-6 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.