How to Grow Itea Virginica Henry's Garnet - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Itea virginica henry's garnet is a species of flowering plant in the family Iteaceae, native to the southeastern United States. Growing to 2.5 m (8 ft 2 in) tall by 2.5 m (8 ft 2 in) wide, it is an upright deciduous shrub with glossy, ovate leaves and panicles of small, white flowers in spring, followed by dark red fruits.

How to Grow Itea Virginica Henry's Garnet - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

  • Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet'
  • Virginia willow
  • Sweet spire
  • Spicebush
  • Swamp dogwood

Good to Know

  • It is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall.
  • It has dark green leaves that turn red in the fall.
  • The flowers are white or pink and bloom in the spring.
  • The fruit is a reddish-purple drupe that ripens in the summer.
  • It is native to the eastern United States and Canada.
  • It is named for its resemblance to the garnet gemstone.
  • It is a popular landscaping plant.
  • It is relatively easy to grow and care for.
  • It is resistant to deer and rabbits.
  • It can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.

Related plant:
Itea Ilicifolia

Planting Process

  1. For itea virginica henry's garnet, first step is to find good planting location. The planting location should have well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
  2. The next step is to clear the planting area of all debris, including any weeds.
  3. Once the planting area is prepared, it is time to plant the itea virginica henry's garnet. The plant can be planted in either a pot or directly in the ground.
  4. Water the itea virginica henry's garnet deeply after planting.
  5. Fertilize the itea virginica henry's garnet regularly during the growing season.
  6. Prune the itea virginica henry's garnet as needed to maintain its shape.
  7. In late fall, prepare the itea virginica henry's garnet for winter by covering it with mulch.
  8. The itea virginica henry's garnet will bloom in late spring or early summer.
  9. Once the itea virginica henry's garnet blooms, the flowers will be followed by berries.
  10. Enjoy your itea virginica henry's garnet!

Related plant:
Itea Virginica Little Henry

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, it should be mentioned that the tree does best in average to moist, well-drained soils, but it tolerates a wide range of conditions including clay soils. It has a deep taproot and is drought tolerant.

About light

Similar to other itea plants, the Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' prefers full sun to partial shade. It will do best in partial sun, however, with at least four to six hours of direct sunlight each day. The more sun it receives, the more flowers it will produce. It is a pretty tolerant plant, though, so it can also adapt to shady areas as well.

The Temperature

The temperature condition for itea virginica henry's garnet is relatively warm. They prefer a temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a range of temperatures, but prefer a consistent temperature. They will do best in an environment that does not fluctuate too much in temperature.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. If the humidity drops below 50%, the leaves will start to curl and the plant may go into shock. If the humidity remains low for an extended period of time, the plant will eventually die.

Fertilizing

The fertilizer, this type of plant needs, basic root needs to be kept moist. Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' is a great plant for the garden because it provides structure and interest throughout the year. The deep redfruits of this deciduous shrub provide fall color, while the shiny, evergreen leaves provide year-round interest.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important aspect of caring for your Virginia Itea Henry's Garnet. Pruning helps to encourage new growth, and also helps to keep the plant looking tidy. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or dying leaves or branches. You can prune your Virginia Itea Henry's Garnet in the spring or fall.

About Propagating

Propagation by softwood or semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer or early autumn is the easiest method. Take cuttings of new growth that have not flowered. Trim just below a node and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone and insert in moist, well-drained soil. Firm around the base and water well. Place in a protected, shady spot until rooting has occurred.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is about 1-2 feet per year. However, some lucky gardeners have seen growth rates up to 4 feet per year. Growing itea virginica henry's garnet in ideal conditions will give you the best chance for rapid growth.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are: spider mites, aphids, scale, and whiteflies. These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop off. To control these pests, use an insecticide that is specifically labeled for use on itea virginica henry's garnet.

Basics of Growing

  • Remember to keep it moist, itea virginica henry's garnet needs constant moisture to stay healthy and growing.
  • Fertilize regularly, itea virginica henry's garnet needs nutrients to maintain its growth.
  • Place it in a well-lit location, itea virginica henry's garnet needs plenty of sunlight to grow well.
  • Keep it away from drafts, itea virginica henry's garnet is sensitive to changes in temperature and can be harmed by drafts.
  • Prune it regularly, itea virginica henry's garnet grows quickly and will need to be trimmed back occasionally to keep it under control.
  • Keep an eye out for pests, itea virginica henry's garnet is susceptible to pests and diseases. Check it regularly for signs of infestation and treat accordingly.
  • water it deeply, itea virginica henry's garnet

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Source:
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet'
Record Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' | Collections Search Center ...
Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' habit: UIPLANTS

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category