Water
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods and when the plant is establishing. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
Itea chinensis, the Chinese Sweetspire, is an adaptable deciduous shrub known for its fragrant, creamy white flower spikes that bloom in late spring to early summer.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Full Sun
50% intensity
Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter climates.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained, fertile, acidic to neutral
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 6-9; prefers cooler temperatures during winter.
Light
25% intensity
Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods and when the plant is establishing. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done anytime to control size.
Avoid heavy pruning in late summer as it may remove flowering wood for the next season.
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in mid-summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining medium. Keep moist and in a humid environment until roots develop.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in early spring before new growth emerges. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss and perlite.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Sweetspire (Itea chinensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Iteaceae |
| Genus | Itea |
| Species | Itea chinensis |
Similar in genus Itea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
