BlueBell Arboretum & Nursery

Mail order trees, shrubs, conifers and woody climbers

Description

A colourful, deciduous small shrub, Itea virginica 'Merlot' has racemes of creamy white flowers in June and lovely purple-orange autumn colour. The flowers stand out very well against the bright green leaves in the summer time.

Although this compact, hardy Itea will grow in partial shade, the best autumn colour is generally seen when planted in a position with lots of sunlight.

Supplied Size: 3L containers (30 - 40 cm tall)

• Position: Full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Well drained, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy. Itea virginica 'Merlot' appreciates shelter from strong winter winds.
• Flowering Period: June.
• Flower Colour: White
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Small, compact rounded shrub.
  • Height: up to 1.5 m (5 ft).
  • Spread: 1.5 m (5 ft).

• Notes: Itea virginica 'Merlot' is fairly drought tolerant and is considered a good plant for use as erosion control on slopes.