What is a spirea?
Like hydrangea, rhododendron, and lilac, spirea (or spiraea) has joined the ranks as one of the most popular flowering shrubs for the home garden. Their long-lasting blooms and ability to serve a variety of landscape functions — from mass plantings and perennial borders to groundcovers and informal hedges — have made them a staple in gardens of all sizes. If you’re only familiar with the traditional bridal wreath spirea, a large shrub that can become ungainly if not pruned, you’ll love the versatility and carefree nature of the newer spirea cultivars showcased here. They not only have tidier growth habits but also more vibrant foliage, so they provide seasonal interest even when not in bloom.
What is a low growing spirea shrub?
This low-growing mounded spirea shrub is ideal for creating eye-catching borders that provide continual interest. In spring, the new leaves are vibrant red, gradually maturing to gold while retaining red tips at the ends of the branches. In summer, clusters of deep pink flowers set off the bright gold foliage and continue sporadically well into fall.
What is the color of Japanese spirea?
Available in a wide array of cultivars, Japanese spirea offers the most variety in terms of size, flower color, and leaf color. It produces abundant clusters of white, light pink, rosy red or purple flowers that adorn the branches in late spring and summer. Sizes range from dwarf types, such as ‘Little Princess’, to larger shrubs that grow to 5 feet or taller. Most varieties have finely textured green or blue-green leaves, but some cultivars have yellow or chartreuse foliage that changes color throughout the season.
How tall is a spirea shrub?
Height and spread: 1 to 2 feet tall, 2 feet wide. This low-growing mounded spirea shrub is ideal for creating eye-catching borders that provide continual interest. In spring, the new leaves are vibrant red, gradually maturing to gold while retaining red tips at the ends of the branches.
When do little spireas bloom?
This exquisite little spirea may have the most colorful foliage around, emerging candy-apple red in the spring and maturing to yellow and pumpkin orange as the season progresses. Adding to its eye-candy appeal are dark purple flowers that appear in late spring. Give it a light shearing after the first flush of blooms and enjoy an encore performance that lasts into fall. Otherwise, little pruning is needed to maintain this shrub’s compact, mounded shape.
What is a birchleaf spirea?
Birchleaf spirea (Spiraea betulifolia): A compact, rounded shrub growing 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. White flowers appear in early to midsummer, but this spirea is at its most colorful in autumn, when the dark green, birch-like leaves turn rich shades of red, orange, and purple.
Is spia a disease?
Spirea generally aren't bothered by any serious pest or disease problems. However, they are related to roses and can be susceptible to the same pests and diseases as roses, such as leaf spot, powdery mildew and aphids.
What is a spirea shrub?
Spirea shrubs are deciduous shrubs that can be divided into two categories: spring blooming and summer blooming . The spring-blooming spirea has a delicate cascading habit with large clusters of white flowers poised on arching branches.
How Do I Grow Spirea?
Growing spirea shrubs is extremely easy, and these flexible plants are hardy in just about any growing zone. Spirea bushes are available at most garden supply stores and greenhouses and should be planted during the spring or fall for best results.
Can spirea be planted in full sun?
The spirea shrub does best when planted in full sun or light shade. Planting the shrub in full shade results in stunted growth, and a reduction in the number and size of blooms. Position your spirea in an area with well-drained soil, as they do not like wet feet.
How big does Vanhoutte spirea grow?
For USDA zones 4 to 8. Vanhoutte spirea ( S. x vanhouttei) is a deciduous broadleaf shrub with an arching branch habit that can grow 5 to 8 feet high and spread as much as 7 to 10 feet wide. The Vanhoutte hybrids are crosses of S. trilobata and S. cantoniensis.
What is the color of spireas in fall?
Fall color is red to orange. These are often found at old home sites and are hardy from USDA zones 5 to 8. Other species of spirea, such as the Vanhoutte spirea, are often sold as “bridal wreath spireas” in catalogs.
What is a bridal wreath spirea?
Bridal wreath spirea ( S. prunifolia) is an early blooming, deciduous shrub with white, double flowers that appear before the foliage in the spring. This spirea grows to about 6 feet tall and wide. Prune, if necessary, soon after flowering. Fall color is red to orange. These are often found at old home sites and are hardy from USDA zones 5 to 8. Other species of spirea, such as the Vanhoutte spirea, are often sold as “bridal wreath spireas” in catalogs.
What is the color of the leaves on a Golden Sunrise plant?
Fall color of foliage is coppery orange. Blooms during the summer with pink flowers. Plants grow 3 feet tall by 4 feet wide.
Do spireas need full sun?
These shrubs grow best, more dense, and produce more blooms in full sun. Spireas are tolerant of many soils except those that are extremely wet. The plant also responds well to applied mulch and summer watering. After flowering has finished, prune the mostly spring-blooming spireas.
Is a spirea a shrub?
Smaller cultivars can make nice accent plants for a border perennial garden. Most spireas are deciduous shrubs, and some have colorful fall foliage. Spirea flowers are often visited by butterflies. Spireas are generally deer resistant.
Do spireas have diseases?
Problems. Like other members of the rose family, spireas are susceptible to various pests and diseases, but most are not serious. Diseases: Phytophthora or Pythium root rots could occur in poorly drained, wet soils, but these soils should be avoided for almost any type of shrub.
What type of soil does Spirea prefer?
Spirea prefers well-drained soil that has a neutral pH. Test the acidity level before planting and occasionally during the season to determine if soil amendments are needed.
What is the role of spirea?
Medicinally and historically, spirea has played, and continues to play, an essential role in our society. Spiraea betulifolia was traditionally used both as a food and a medicine by the native Americans.
What are the different types of spireas?
Popular Spiraea spp. Varieties 1 Birchleaf spirea (Spiraea betulifolia): While it has some summer interest in small white flowers, the real highlight is the show this shrub puts on during the fall with purple, orange, and red shades. 2 Early Spirea (Spiraea thunbergii): Blooming early in the spring, this species offers three-season interest giving the most spectacular fall colors of purple, orange, burgundy, red and yellow. 3 Japanese spirea (Spiraea japonica): This species is easily the most cultivated with endless sizes, forms, colors, and textures. One popular cultivar is 'Gold Mound'. 4 Bridal wreath spirea (Spiraea prunifolia): Bridal wreath spirea is a large species compared to other in the genus. It can reach heights up to 20 feet if not pruned back. Bridal wreath spirea is named for the beautiful wedding wreaths traditionally made from its tiny white flowers. During autumn, reds, oranges, and yellows pop out of nowhere, setting the large shrub ablaze.
What color is birchleaf spirea?
Birchleaf spirea (Spiraea betulifolia): While it has some summer interest in small white flowers, the real highlight is the show this shrub puts on during the fall with purple, orange, and red shades.
How tall is a wedding wreath spirea?
Bridal wreath spirea (Spiraea prunifolia): Bridal wreath spirea is a large species compared to other in the genus. It can reach heights up to 20 feet if not pruned back. Bridal wreath spirea is named for the beautiful wedding wreaths traditionally made from its tiny white flowers.
How many petals does a Spiraea have?
Each is deciduous, mostly with narrow, oval-shaped leaves called lanceolate in botany. They all have many tightly clustered flowers with five sepals and five petals. These similarities are often as far as it goes when it comes to the genus. This is great news for designers and gardeners looking for variety in their landscapes.
Is spirea a deer resistant plant?
Take warning, though; spirea is not deer-resistant and is occasionally a last resort snack for these animals.
What Are Spirea Plants?
Spirea plants (commonly known as spiraea, steeplebushes or meadowsweets) are deciduous perennials, meaning that they lose their foliage in the winter months, but come back up in the spring once temperatures start to rise again. The spiraea is known for their heartiness.
Why do restaurants grow spirea bushes?
Many restaurants and stores opt to grow different spiraea bushes as landscaping primarily due to their low-maintenance aspect. This is another reason why many gardeners like to plant spirea plants; they are an easy way to add color to your landscaping without much hassle.
What is the pest that eats spirea leaves?
Aphids. Aphids are fairly common pests to be on the lookout for in any type of garden. Aphids will attach themselves to the underside of leaves and will suck the nutrients from the plant. An aphid infestation can result in yellowing and dying leaves in spirea plants but does not often kill them.
What is double play spirea?
Double Play Red Spirea. Although most spireas are a range of pink and white shades, there is a variety that has true red blooming flowers. Another aspect that makes the double play unique is that it is a spring-blooming plant. A majority of spring-blooming spirea have white flowers, but this variety blooms a deep red.
How tall does a magic carpet spirea grow?
Although the plant can grow to be two feet tall, it more commonly stays below a foot and spreads horizontally instead of vertically as it grows.
What is the best soil for spiraea?
Roots that are left in too much water can develop root rot, which can be harmful to the plant’s health. Consistently moist soil is best for the spiraea plant, but it can withstand some small periods of being dry with little to no harm done to the plant.
What is the problem with spireas?
It is still a good idea to handle any noticeable infestations before they get out of hand. Spider mite infestation on a spirea shrub may look like yellowing spots forming on the leaves of the plant, and webbing may also occur.
Where is the Spiraea shrub native to?
Spiraea, commonly spelled spirea, is a genus of over 80 woody shrubs in the Rosaceae (rose) family. Native to temperate zones in the Northern Hemisphere, the greatest diversity of species is found in eastern China. Named from the Greek word speira, which means spiral, it refers to their wreath-like display of showy, ...
When do bridal wreath spirea flowers appear?
Flowers appear in profuse clusters on bare branches before foliage appears in early spring.
How tall does a bridal wreath grow?
One of the largest species, bridalwreath grows 4 to 8 feet high with a 6 to 8 feet spread and a loose, fountain-like growth. In fall, the finely serrated foliage turns shades of orange, red, and yellow for extended interest. Hardy in Zones 3-8, they flower on old wood and should be pruned immediately after flowering.
How big do sage plants get?
Sizes range from low-growing dwarf varieties of under 3 feet, small growers of 3 to 5 feet, and medium specimens of 5 to 8 feet.
What is the name of the flower that grows in a cluster of small flowers?
Named from the Greek word speira, which means spiral, it refers to their wreath-like display of showy, small flowers. Growing in grouped panicles, flat-topped corymbs, or clusters in colors of mauve, pink, red, rose, and white, each tiny flower looks like a mini apple blossom with five petals and numerous stamens.
Do spireas attract butterflies?
And the color doesn’t stop in the autumn, spirea displays beautiful red foliage in the fall. Shrubs are mostly deer resistant and attract butterflies and other pollinators. Typically, plants are hardy in Zones 4-9 although some are more heat or cold tolerant.
When do bridal wreaths bloom?
Spring blooming species, like bridalwreath, have a graceful cascading habit with masses of white flowers that bloom in April and May perched along bowing branches. Summer flowering plants display flowers of pink, red, or white that perch atop upright stems and bloom from June to August.
Planting Spirea in Pots
Plant your Spirea in the spring, as this shrub will provide colorful blooms all summer long. Select a resin container that has good drainage holes. You will want to choose a container that allows space for growth. Consider a container that will provide 6 to 8 inches more width than the root ball. Spireas like moist, well-drained soil.
Best Soil For Spirea in Pots
Spireas are very hardy plants that are not picky about soil type. What is more important is that the soil drains well. Choose a good quality potting soil with average fertility. For better drainage, mix in 10% to 20% Perlite or pumice. Prior to planting, add some rocks to the bottom of the container.
Caring For Spirea in Planters
Care for your container grown Spirea the same as you would a landscape Spirea. Provide partial to full sun each day. The more sun exposure this shrub gets increases the possibility of repeated blooming. Make sure that the soil can drain well. Potted plants tend to dry out faster, so additional watering may be needed.
Watering Spirea in Pots
Despite being heat and drought tolerant, Spireas grown in containers will require more watering than garden plants, especially during periods of drought. A general rule of thumb is to water the plant when the top 2 inches of soil feels dry. This plant likes moist but not soggy soil. It is best to avoid allowing your Spirea to sit in standing water.
Fertilizing Spirea in Pots
Spirea shrubs are not heavy feeders. Typically, an application of fertilizer in the early spring and another in early summer is all a container grown shrub requires for the growing season. Choose a slow-release granular fertilizer for use with potted plants. Follow the package instructions regarding amounts and application process.
Winter Care For Spirea in Pots
Container grown Spirea should be pruned back and moved to a sheltered location for the cold weather season. This will prevent the plant from going through freeze and thaw cycles while it is dormant. The main thing you want to do is protect the roots from the freezing temperatures.
Can Spirea Be Grown Indoors
Spirea shrubs can be grown indoors during the cold weather months. You will want to prune the branches prior to bringing it indoors. Find a warm sunny spot for the container. Water the shrub weekly. Don’t expect a lot of blooming during this period of time.
What is a spirea?
The spirea is a common flowering shrub that is a favorite among landscapers. It comes in multiple varieties with leaf colors that range between green and red. The flowers of the plant include white, pink, and other variations. Spirea is easy to grow and maintain.
How wide does a spirea plant spread?
The smaller varieties tend to have spreads that range between 18 to 24 inches, while the larger varieties can have spreads as wide as four to six feet. If you plant your spirea too close together you will impede their ability to grow and to produce flowers. Always give your spirea enough space to grow without colliding with their neighbor.
What happens if you plant spireas too close together?
If you plant your spirea too close together you will impede their ability to grow and to produce flowers. Always give your spirea enough space to grow without colliding with their neighbor. 3. Over Fertilizing. Over fertilizing is one of the most common growing mistakes made for spirea plants.
What is deadheading spirea?
Deadheading is the process of cutting off flowers that have faded. This process isn’t a requirement for the spirea, but it can be very beneficial. Deadheading will prevent the production of seeds in the fall and can save you a lot of cleanup work.
Can you plant spireas in the shade?
However, even though it is easy to cultivate a spirea plant there are several common spirea growing mistakes that you will want to avoid. These mistakes include planting your spirea in an area of your yard that is in full shade, improper spacing, over fertilizing, over watering, and forgetting to deadhead spent flowers.
Can spireas grow in soggy soil?
The spirea can thrive under most conditions; however, it does not tolerate soggy soil. It is because of this that you do not want to give your spirea too much water during the year. Spirea plants generally only need a little extra water during the summer months. The rest of the year it will be able to get the water that it needs from its natural environment.
Do spireas need fertilizer?
The spirea does not require a lot of food to grow healthy. They only require an annual feeding of granular all-purpose fertilizer. This feeding can be done either in the fall or in early spring. To apply the fertilizer just sprinkle the granules around the base of your spirea.
