Itea virginica, commonly known as Virginia sweetspire, is a deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States. It typically grows 3 to 5 feet tall and features arching branches with glossy green leaves that turn vibrant shades of red and orange in the fall. The plant produces fragrant, white, or cream-colored flowers in elongated clusters during late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. This adaptable shrub thrives in a variety of soil types, including wet or poorly drained areas, making it suitable for rain gardens and naturalized landscapes. Itea virginica is often used in landscaping for its ornamental value and ability to provide habitat for wildlife.