Itea japonica
Family: Escalloniaceae
What it is like
Itea japonica is a deciduous Shrub. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
Not known
E. Asia - C. and S. Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young leaves - cooked.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in most fertile soils in sun or shade. This plant has recently been introduced to Kew (1990), its hardiness is not yet known. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in late winter in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of soft stem tips, late spring in a frame. They must be kept moist. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 7cm with a heel, July/August in a sandy compost in a frame. Overwinter the young plants in a greenhouse for the first winter. Cuttings of mature wood, late winter in a cold frame. Division in early spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist