Shrub
Virginia Sweetspire
Itea virginica
Varieties We Carry
StandardItea virginica
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$26.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size3-6 feet × 3-6 feet
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
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther 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
Light
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.
Water
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.
Soil & Fertilizer
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.
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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.