Itea virginica

The alternate-leaved bush, in Latin Itea virginica, is a graceful, deciduous shrub, very hardy, whose leaves turn pink and red in autumn. In early summer, it is adorned with many clusters of white flowers that are quite unusual and delicately scented. It is a plant that thrives in moist and slightly acidic soil. It can be grown in a large pot or in a partially shaded area of the garden.

Itea virginica is a shrub from the Escalloniaceae family. It is found naturally in swamps and along watercourses in the southeastern United States, particularly in Virginia. It grows relatively slowly and eventually forms a bushy shrub, reaching a height of about 1.75 m (5 ft 8 in) and a spread of 1.50 m (4 ft 11 in), depending on the growing conditions. Its deciduous leaves are alternate, 5 to 7 cm (2.8 in) long, elliptical in shape, with a glossy green upper surface and a paler underside. In autumn, they turn shades of pink, red, and purple before falling off. Flowering occurs in June. It takes the form of clusters of small, white, star-shaped and fragrant flowers held above the foliage. The flower heads hang down in pretty pendulous clusters measuring 10 to 15 cm (5.9 in) in length. This flowering gives the shrub a weeping appearance. The alternate-leaved bush prefers a slightly acidic, well-drained soil that is slightly moist, in a partially shaded location.

The alternate-leaved bush is very ornamental when planted as a specimen, in a mass planting, as part of a large border, or in a woodland setting. It can also be grown in a container or a large pot on a slightly shaded terrace. In Anglo-Saxon countries, it is commonly planted in large numbers around bodies of water such as small ponds or lakes. This shrub can be paired with hydrangeas, camellias, and other Chinese azaleas that thrive in similar conditions. Consider also Japanese Styrax and dark-leaved Physocarpus to enhance its beauty.

Tips: It does not tolerate alkaline and/or dry soils. It can tolerate full sun if the soil is moist.