Henry's Garnet Virginia Sweetspire - Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' From our Garden Photo: Bruce Kirchoff

Photo: Bruce Kirchoff

fading into pink hues before the plants disappear completely by June

but prefers full sun

the ornamental dried flowers and the exfoliating cinnamon to tan bark provide seasonal interest

best in light shade to prevent scorch

Henry's Garnet Virginia Sweetspire - Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' From our Garden Photo: Bruce KirchoffLook out your window in any season and this small, well behaved shrub will reward you with color and structure every time. The heavy fragrance of its white clusters of flowers greets a gardener in May and June, then the glossy green leaves of summer turn into an incredible blend of reds, oranges and golds in fall. Plant it in full sun for even more intense color. This low maintenance shrub will fill out a back border and gives structure to the winter