Virginia sweetspire
Itea virginica 'Saturnalia'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 9
Flowers:
White Flowers In Summer
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Fruits:
blue,black Fruits Ready In Fall
Edible:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica 'Saturnalia') should be watered about twice a week. Ensure that the soil is moist but not soggy. During hot weather, increase watering to every 3-4 days. Water thoroughly, allowing the excess to run off, and wait a few days before watering again. Water around the roots of the plant and avoid wetting the leaves if possible. In cooler weather, the Sweetspire can go a little longer between waterings. Monitor soil moisture levels closely to make sure that the plant does not dry out.
sunlight
Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica 'Saturnalia') prefers full to partial sunlight and grows best when it receives about 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it is tolerant of some light shade and can perform quite well in dappled or indirect light. To keep the foliage green and lush, it is best to avoid harsh, direct midday sun and light shade for part of the day should suffice. In hot summer climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to protect the plant from the intense heat while also allowing for plenty of light.
pruning
Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica 'Saturnalia') should be pruned once a year in late winter or early spring, before any new growth has begun. Pruning should be light and selective; remove only 1/3rd of the oldest stems near the base of the shrub. This will promote new growth from the base, resulting in a more compact shrub with increased flowering. Occasional maintenance pruning can also be done in late summer or early fall to control size and shape. Remove any straggly growth or dead/diseased stems. Avoid heavy shearing as this can damage the plant and inhibit flowering.
