M
Native Shrub·Native Plants & Shrubs
Merlot Sweetspire
Itea virginica 'Merlot'
SC NativeLow Maintenance
🌱 Growing Conditions
Sun RequirementsFull Sun to Part Shade
Water NeedsModerate to High
Soil PreferencesMoist to wet tolerant; adaptable
Mature Size3-4' x 3-4'
🍂 Seasonal Interest
Bloom Time & ColorJune-July; fragrant white racemes
Fall ColorIntense merlot-red to deep wine-purple (exceptional and long-lasting)
Wildlife ValuePollinators, cover
🏡 Landscape Notes
Landscape UseRain gardens, mass planting, foundation, mixed border, stream banks
Special Features
Native species cultivar; compact habit; outstanding and long-lasting fall color — among the best reds of any shrub; tolerates wet sites; fragrant summer bloom
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