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What Are the Different Types of Little Henry Plant

Updated: July 14, 2023

Introduction

The Little Henry plant, also known as Itea virginica ‘Little Henry,’ is a popular shrub that offers a variety of benefits to any garden or landscape. With its compact size and stunning foliage, it has become a favorite among gardeners. In this article, we will explore the different types of Little Henry plants and their unique characteristics.

1. Little Henry Sweetspire

One of the most common types of Little Henry plants is the Little Henry Sweetspire. This variety is known for its beautiful white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are fragrant and attract butterflies and bees, making it a great addition to any wildlife garden.

The foliage of the Little Henry Sweetspire is another standout feature. Its leaves change color throughout the seasons, starting with vibrant green in spring and summer, turning to yellow, orange, and red in the fall. This makes it an excellent choice for adding interest and color to your landscape all year round.

2. Little Henry Dwarf Virginia Sweetspire

The Little Henry Dwarf Virginia Sweetspire is another popular variation of the Little Henry plant. As its name suggests, it is a dwarf variety that stays compact and grows only about 2-3 feet tall. This makes it an ideal choice for smaller gardens or containers.

Despite its smaller size, the Little Henry Dwarf Virginia Sweetspire still offers the same stunning features as its larger counterparts. It produces fragrant white flowers in late spring to early summer and has attractive foliage that changes color in the fall. Its compact size also makes it easier to maintain and prune.

3. Little Henry Virginia Sweetspire

The Little Henry Virginia Sweetspire is a larger version of the Little Henry plant. It can grow up to 4-5 feet tall and wide, making it suitable for larger landscapes or as a background plant in a garden bed. This variety also produces beautiful white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.

The Little Henry Virginia Sweetspire has a more open and spreading habit compared to the dwarf varieties. Its foliage changes color in fall, with shades of yellow, orange, and red. This variety requires more space to grow but offers a stunning display of flowers and foliage.

4. Little Henry Japanese Sweetspire

The Little Henry Japanese Sweetspire is another type of Little Henry plant that offers unique characteristics. It is a hybrid variety that combines the best features of the Little Henry Sweetspire and Japanese Sweetspire plants. This results in a shrub with fragrant white flowers and attractive foliage.

The Little Henry Japanese Sweetspire has a compact size similar to the dwarf varieties, making it suitable for smaller gardens or containers. It blooms in late spring to early summer and its foliage turns shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. This hybrid variety is an excellent choice for those who want the best of both worlds.

5. Little Henry Inkberry

The Little Henry Inkberry is a different type of Little Henry plant that stands out from the rest. Unlike the other varieties, it does not produce flowers but offers unique foliage instead. The leaves of the Little Henry Inkberry are deep green and shiny, providing a striking contrast to other plants in the garden.

This variety is also known for its compact size, reaching about 3-4 feet tall and wide. Its dense growth habit makes it an excellent choice for hedges or borders. The Little Henry Inkberry is also low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning or care.

Conclusion

The Little Henry plant offers a variety of options for gardeners looking to add beauty to their landscapes. From the fragrant flowers of the Little Henry Sweetspire to the unique foliage of the Little Henry Inkberry, there is a type of Little Henry plant for every garden. Whether you have a small space or a larger landscape, the Little Henry plant is sure to impress with its compact size and stunning features. Consider adding one or more of these varieties to your garden and enjoy their beauty year after year.