Spiraea

Spiraea or Rosaceae are deciduous or semi-evergreen shrubs which are found in woodlands or along riverbanks. They have alternate leaves which can be entire, lobed or toothed depending on variety and some species have very decorative foliage. Spiraea normally flower during spring or summer months and produce corymbs of cup-shaped flowers in pink, white, yellow or purple.

Where to Site Your Spiraea

Low lying varieties such as Spiraea japonica can be used as ground cover; reducing weeds in a bed, whereas taller types can be used to produce an informal hedge. Smaller shrubs can also be planted as part of a rockery.  

How to Grow and Look after your Spiraea

Plant in moist well drained soil, best placed in full sun or partial shade.

The pruning of this shrub does vary depending on the species, but the general rule is to cut young stems back in early spring on those who flower on the current year’s growth. For those types which flower on old wood, the old shoots should be removed, leaving new young shoots behind to flower.