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Public Plant Profile

Little Henry® Sweetspire

Itea virginica 'Sprich' (Little Henry®)

Category: Deciduous Shrub • Sweetspire

Little Henry® Sweetspire offers fragrant blooms and vibrant fall color, perfect for borders and mass plantings.

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Mature Height: 3-4 feet

Mature Width: 3-4 feet

Bloom Color: White

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 5-9

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Little Henry® Sweetspire is a compact deciduous shrub known for its fragrant white flowers and attractive foliage. It thrives in moist, acidic soils and is ideal for borders or naturalized areas.

Ideal Conditions

Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Thrives in a variety of soil types.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained with consistent moisture; adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Watering Needs

Requires consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.

Pruning Notes

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Fertilizing Notes

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer for optimal growth.

Common Issues

May face issues with leaf spot or aphids; ensure good air circulation.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

bordermass plantingspecimen

Special Features

Fragrant flowersattractive fall foliage

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Tolerates wet soil and some drought.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for naturalized areas and provides seasonal interest. Can be used to attract pollinators.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Little Henry® Sweetspire a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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