A small genus of 10 or so shrubs and small trees in the gooseberry family. The evergreens have glossy, holly-like foliage, while the deciduous species have showy fall color. The flowers resemble dangling bottlebrushes or catkins.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsI. virginica is native to the eastern U.S.
CareProvide full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil. Itea will not tolerate drought.
PropagationSow fresh seed in containers outdoors; root greenwood cuttings in spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
ProblemsInfrequent.
