Itea virginica ‘Little Henry’ – Virginia Sweetspire ‘Little Henry’ (B&B.DR.FC.FRG.H.HMR.M.OP.SHWY)

Ecosystem Services:
(B)-Birds                                             (B&B)-Birds & Butterflies

(BTF)-Butterflies                             (BW)-Black Walnut Resistant

(DR)-Deer Resistant                      (DRGHT)-Drought Resistant

(EC)-Erosion Control                    (EVR)-Evergreen

(FC)-Fall Color                                 (FRG)-Fragrant

(GRD)-Groundcover                      (H)-Host plant

(HMR)-Hummingbirds                (M)-Mammals

(MTH)-Moths                                   (N)-Nectar

(NB)-Native Bees                            (NST)-Nesting Material

(OP)-Other pollinators                 (RR)-Rabbit Resistant

(SHWY)-Showy                                (SPC)-Specimen Plant

‘Little Henry’ is a cultivar in the Iteaceae family.  It is a dwarf version of the native Itea virginica that has more superior flowers than its species.  Its fall color is also improved.

Appearing like tassels or bottle brushes, and flowering from late spring to early summer, the plant will be covered with a blanket of creamy-white 4″ spires of blooms that droop on the arching branches.  The flowers open starting at the base, extending towards the tip.  This makes the flowers appear to bloom for a longer period of time.

Placing this plant in full sun will lead to a more brilliant display of fall foliage.

As this low maintenance plant blooms on old wood, pruning should be accomplished soon after flowering.

In the southern portion of its growing zone, this plant may be semi-evergreen.

Plant in groupings to overcome the plants sometimes scraggly appearance.  This plants habit is ground hugging, therefore mass planting can also be of benefit where erosion control is required.

Host plant for the American Holly Azure Butterfly.