Spirea is a small, rounded shrub reaching 3 to 5 feet high. White, umbel-like flower clusters appear in May followed by dark green leaves. Flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Use en masse or in a mixed shrub border. Cultivars are more popular in the nursery trade.
More Information
Size and Form
Oriental spirea is an upright, mounded shrub reaching 3 to 5 feet high.
Native Geographic Location and Habitat
It is native to eastern Europe, Asia, Japan, Siberia, China, and Korea. It is found in mixed woods and on rocky alpine and grassy slopes.
Pollinators and Wildlife
Hummingbirds and butterflies are attracted to it.
Bark Color and Texture
Spirea has slender, brown stems.
Leaf Description
Alternate, narrow 1 to 2 inches long leaves, with a slight toothed margin toward the tip. Leaves do not have any significant fall color.
Flower Description
Flattened clusters (racemes) of tiny white flowers at the tip of branches in May and June.
Fruit and Seed Description
It produces a dry brown follicle that is not showy.
Care Knowledge
Plant Care
Spirea grows best in full sun to part shade and well-drained soils, preferring organic rich, fertile soil with even moisture. It flowers on old wood and should be pruned immediately after flowering if needed. This shrub benefits from a layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature fluctuation.
Pests, Diseases and Tolerances
As with any rose family member, it can be prone to leaf spots, powdery mildew, root rot in wet soil. It is resistant to deer and air pollution.
Cultivars
Snow Storm™ Spirea (Spiraea media ‘Darsnorm’):
A mounded, 3 to 5 feet high and wide shrub with blue-green foliage and large clusters of dome-shaped white flowers.
