Itea

Description

Itea is a genus of deciduous and evergreen shrubs that are native to North America and Asia. These plants are loved for their beautiful flowers and foliage, which add color and texture to gardens and landscapes. The name “Itea” comes from the Greek word “itea,” which means willow, due to the similarity of its leaves to those of the willow tree.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Itea shrubs range in size from 3 to 10 feet tall and wide. The leaves are oval or elliptical, 1 to 4 inches long, and turn orange, red, or purple in the fall. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and are small, white, and fragrant. They grow in long, slender, drooping clusters that can be up to 6 inches long. In the fall, the flowers are replaced by small, brown, capsule-like fruits that contain seeds.

Care Guide

Itea shrubs are easy to care for and require little maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for Itea:

• Water: Itea shrubs prefer moist soil, so water them deeply once a week during dry spells.
• Fertilization: Fertilize Itea shrubs in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Soil: Itea shrubs prefer acidic, well-draining soil. If your soil is alkaline, amend it with peat moss or sulfur.
• Sunlight: Itea shrubs prefer partial shade to full sun.
• Hardiness Zones: Itea shrubs are hardy in zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Itea shrubs are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may occasionally be affected by the following:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Treat with insecticidal soap.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.

Habitat

Itea shrubs are native to North America and Asia. They grow in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and along stream banks. These plants prefer moist soil and partial shade, but can tolerate full sun as well.

Question and Answer

Q: Can I grow Itea in a container?

A: Yes, Itea can be grown in a container. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the roots and use a well-draining potting mix.

Q: How often should I prune my Itea?

A: Prune Itea shrubs in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.

Q: How tall do Itea shrubs get?

A: Itea shrubs can grow anywhere from 3 to 10 feet tall and wide, depending on the species.

Q: How do I propagate Itea?

A: Itea can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the spring or hardwood cuttings in the fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a bright, warm location until they root.

Related Plants

• Clethra
• Fothergilla
• Hamamelis
• Hydrangea
• Kalmia

References

• Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Hardy Trees and Shrubs: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. Portland, OR: Timber Press, 2019.
• Gilman, Edward F. Itea virginica. University of Florida IFAS Extension, 1999. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp167
• Missouri Botanical Garden. Itea. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d324