Mountain-spray is a woody, deciduous shrub that grows to about 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. It has an arching habit and is densely branched. Leaves are soft green with some pubescence, and turn shades of red in the fall. White flowers form along upright stems, blooming from June to August. Seeds persist into winter. Older bark is exfoliating and a deep red. A Utah native, mountain-spray is found in rocky cliff faces in sheltered canyons. A nice choice for drier shade areas, such as an understory beneath taller shrubs and trees.
Grow in well drained soils, with some organic content, but well drained is the key. Tolerates soil pH to 8.0. Though it grows in full sun, it will require more water; in part to filtered shade sites, its water demand will be considerably lower. Prune selectively, removing the tallest branches after flowering. Makes a nice cut flower.