Itea illicifolia

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Holly-leaved sweet spireShrub, EvergreenFamily: Iteaceae

Height: 5mSpread: 3m
Hardy

Attractive to wildlife
Scented flowers

Flower colour:

Yellow

Foliage colour:

Green

Position

Sun Exposure:

Full sun, partial shade

Aspect:

South facing, west facing

Position in Border:

Back

Soil

Prefers rich soil:

Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Commonly known as holly-leaved sweet spire or Virginian willow, Itea illicifolia is an evergreen shrub native to western China.

It's predominantly grown for its dramatic, fragrant racemes of flowers that appear from mid- to late summer and attract pollinating insects. It also makes a fantastic wall shrub, so is good for clothing a bare wall in colour all year, though it can also be grown as a free-standing shrub.

For best results, grow Itea illicifolia in full sun or partial shade in fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Ideally provide it with some shelter, especially when young, as it may suffer if grown in a windy spot. Itea illicifolia holds the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit (AGM).

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecPlantyes**yesFlowersyes**yes

Itea ‘illicifolia’ and wildlife

Itea ‘illicifolia’ is known for attracting bees and beneficial insects. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Is known to attract Bees

Bees

Is known to attract Beneficial insects

Beneficial insects

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Butterflies/Moths

Butterflies/Moths

Is not known to attract Other pollinators

Other pollinators

Is Itea ‘illicifolia’ poisonous?

Itea ‘illicifolia’ has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Cats

Cats

Is not known to attract Dogs

Dogs

Is not known to attract Horses

Horses

Is not known to attract Livestock

Livestock

Is not known to attract People

People