Plant Type

Shrub

 

Height Range

1-3', 3-6'

 

Flower Color

White

 

Flower Season

Summer

 

Leaf Color

Green

 

Bark Color

Brown

 

Fruit Color

Brown

 

Fruit Season

Summer, Fall

Sun

Full, Half

 

Water

Medium, High

 

Growth Rate

Moderate

 

Soil Type

Clay, Loam

 

Soil Condition

Average, Rich, Poor, Well-drained, Moist

 

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

Attracts Bees, Invasive

Design Styles

English Cottage, Meadow, Mediterranean, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers

 

Seasonal Interest

Summer

 

Location Uses

Shrub Border, Foundation, Raised Planter

 

Special Uses

Cut Flowers, Erosion Control, Naturalizing

 

Attracts Wildlife

Birds, Butterflies

Spirea is an upright, deciduous shrub which grows about 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. It has alternate, narrow, toothed, green leaves, and yellow to brown fall color. Cone-shaped clusters (3-4" long) of tiny, white flowers bloom June thru August. Fruits mature in September, and though not ornamental, facilitate its spread and are enjoyed by birds. This species of spirea is a native of the eastern and midwestern U.S., but is currently endangered in the state of Missouri. Typically found in the wild on wet prairies, wet river bottom prairies, and open ground along streams or lakes. A pleasant little shrub for low spots in the garden that periodically collect water, next to water features, in riparian corridor areas, or in rain gardens.

Grow in loamy, well drained soil in full sun to dappled shade, though flowering will be better in full sun. If planted in a pleasing space, it may reseed; deadheading as flowers are spent but before seeds form will remove the chance.