virginia sweetspire

This shrub has handsome foliage in a pleasing round form. An abundance of striking white flower spikes in summer add to the landscape value. It not only attracts the eye, but butterflies as well. Lovely orange to burgundy fall color. One of the best fall foliage plants available. Plant in shrub borders and foundations being tolerant of sun or shade, wet or dry soil.

Plant in well-drained to moist, amended soil. Water well after planting; maintain 1” of water once a week the first year. Little pruning needed; shapes itself nicely. When necessary prune immediately after flowering because next year’s flowers are borne on the this season’s growth. Feed early spring and mid-summer with a slow release fertilizer. Follow label instructions. Mulch 2″ to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect against extremes of soil temperature.