Merlot sweetspire is a cultivar (cultivated variety) of Virginia sweetspire which is native to the moist partly-shaded areas of the south-eastern United States. Merlot is named for its fall color which is dark red and persists into winter. It is also an attractive plant in late spring and summer when the long racemes of fragrant white flowers hang gracefully and attract butterflies and other pollinators. Merlot has a compact form reaching only 3-4 in height and about 3 feet in width. Merlot prefers partial shade and consistently moist soils, but can cope with full sun if soil moisture is maintained.

Because of its compact size Merlot is well-suited as a border or screen, or as an understory plant. In the right conditions it will tend to sucker so unwanted sucker should be removed. Prune in early spring if necessary.