Itea japonica

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

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.

Propagation

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.

Edible uses

Young leaves - cooked.

Habitat

Not known

Native range

E. Asia - C. and S. Japan.