Scentlandia Virginia Sweetspire

Scentlandia Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica 'Scentlandia')

Scentlandia Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica 'Scentlandia') is a compact, deciduous native shrub selected for its superior fragrance, cold hardiness, and brilliant fall color. A refined cultivar of the species, it offers the same multi-season appeal�fragrant white blooms, glossy summer foliage, and rich autumn tones�while performing better in colder climates and tighter spaces.

Distinctive Features

'Scentlandia' grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, forming a dense, mounding shape that fits well in borders and foundation beds. In spring to early summer, it produces upright white flower spikes that are more strongly scented than typical Itea cultivars. The foliage stays lush and clean through summer, then turns vibrant shades of red and burgundy in fall. Bred for improved performance in Zones 5 and 6, it delivers reliable color and bloom in cooler climates where others may underperform.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; thrives in damp conditions and tolerates brief flooding
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Strong fragrance and rich fall color stand out in compact landscapes
• Foundation Planting: Compact size and neat habit fit around homes and walkways
• Pollinator Gardens: Fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects
• Rain Gardens: Adaptable to wet soils and useful in low-lying plantings
• Woodland Edges: Native habit suits naturalized borders and shaded sites

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain regular moisture during establishment; tolerates occasional dry periods once established
• Pruning: Prune after flowering to shape or rejuvenate if needed
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
• Mulching: Helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
• Deer Resistance: Typically avoided by deer

Why Choose Scentlandia Virginia Sweetspire?

• Strong Fragrance: More fragrant blooms than other Itea cultivars
• Cold Hardy: Performs reliably in Zones 5�6 where others may struggle
• Brilliant Fall Color: Consistent, vivid red and burgundy tones
• Compact Growth: Ideal for small gardens and structured beds
• Focal Point: Combines fragrance, color, and native adaptability in one easy-care plant

Itea virginica 'Scentlandia' brings elevated fragrance and cold-climate performance to the classic sweetspire profile�perfect for gardeners seeking seasonal color, wildlife support, and compact, low-maintenance beauty.