Itea japonica 'Beppu'

Also Known As

Japanese Sweetspire

Plant type

shrub

size

H: 2'-3'
W: 3'-5'

planting zones

6a-9b

More Options

Itea japonica 'Beppu' plant details

Itea japonica 'Beppu' is a fast-growing broadleaf deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub with green foliage. In summer white flowers emerge. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and regular water. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something for erosion control.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Itea japonica 'Beppu'

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: iteaceae
Foliage: deciduous or semi-evergreen green
Mature size: 3 FT - 5 FT - wide, 2 FT - 3 FT - tall
Flowers: white blooms in summer
Uses: fall color, fragrant, spreading, winter interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Itea japonica 'Beppu'

USDA Zones: 6a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: erosion
Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Japanese Sweetspires are known for great purple to red Fall color but 'Beppu' has exceptional reddish-purple fall foliage which persists into winter. Fragrant white flowers on a vigorous, spreading plant that can be used on banks. Grows 12" per year. Itea japonica is slightly reminiscent of Leucothoe. The young leaves are wine-red on greenish stems in shade. Has taken temperatures down to -6 degree at Arnold Arboretum in an unprotected spot but did show some foliage damage at that sub Zone 6 temperature, however, it will probably grow in Zone 5B in a protected spot. Shorter than our native Sweetspire. There's some discussion in the trade that Itea japonica 'Beppu' is actually an I. virginica x I. japonica hybrid if it matters to you.