Itea ilicifolia, commonly known as Holly-Leaved Sweet Spire, is an evergreen shrub native to the forest margins and stream banks of North Central and South Central China. It typically grows to a height of 3–5 m (10–16 ft) and a similar spread of 3 m (10 ft), featuring glossy, spiny-toothed, holly-like leaves. The plant is notable for its long, fragrant drooping racemes of greenish-white flowers, each up to 30 cm (12 in) in length, which bloom in summer and autumn, adding a unique textural element to the garden. The flowers are not particularly showy but are valued for their fragrance and the graceful effect they create.

Holly-Leaved Sweet Spire is appreciated for its hardiness and the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, which signifies its excellent performance in gardens. It is suitable for a variety of uses, including woodland gardens, mixed borders, and as a specimen plant. While it is hardy, young plants may need protection from dry winds. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers soils with medium moisture and good drainage. The plant is generally low-maintenance, but it can suffer from leaf spot diseases and may require protection from harsh winter winds in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0