Plant of the Week November 4, 2007

Itea Virginica is an American Native Plant that is spectacular in all seasons! Spring brings fragrant blooms that attract pollinators, summer produces lovely leaf and stem texture with some burgundy red colorations, and fall sets the plant on fire with brilliant red to burgundy foliage that can be seen from great distances. In winter, Itea is evergreen in most climates, but if it does lose most of its leaves, the burgundy stems are very attractive as well. Itea is available in both larger growing and dwarf varieties, so it can fit in any garden! 'Merlot' is a very nice compact form, while 'Henry's Garnet' is great if you have the space for a larger growing shrub. Whichever you choose, you'll be adding a spectacular feature to your garden with Itea Virginica. For more information on this plant, go to www.shadygardens.biz.