Itea virginica ‘Merlot’, commonly known as Merlot Sweetspire, is a compact, deciduous shrub that brings multi-season interest and strong native value to the landscape. A cultivated selection of the U.S. native Sweetspire, ‘Merlot’ features fragrant white flower spikes in late spring to early summer, deep green foliage in summer, and exceptionally vivid burgundy-red fall color. Growing 2 to 3 feet tall and slightly wider, its tight, mounding form makes it ideal for small gardens, foundation plantings, and massing in native borders or rain gardens.

Why choose ‘Merlot’ Sweetspire:

• Compact native form: Dense habit fits easily into smaller gardens and tight spaces

• Fragrant flowers: Arching white flower spikes attract pollinators in early summer

• Brilliant fall color: Deep red foliage persists well into late autumn

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Grows in full sun to part shade

• Soil needs: Prefers moist, well-drained soils but tolerates periodic wetness

• Maintenance: Low-maintenance; prune after flowering if shaping is desired

Designs for your garden:

• Foundation plantings: Great low-growing native for structure and seasonal color

• Rain gardens: Tolerates wet soil and thrives in moist, low-lying areas

• Native borders: Perfect companion to grasses, sedges, and other pollinator-friendly plants

Ecological benefits:

• Native cultivar: Retains pollinator value and habitat support from the species

• Pollinator support: Early nectar source for bees and beneficial insects

• Soil stabilizer: Useful in erosion control and wetland edges