Growing Spiraea (Spirea): Easy Flowering Shrubs

Plant Overview

Spiraea includes ~80 deciduous shrub species with profuse spring or summer flowers. Tough, adaptable, and perfect for modern gardens.

Light and Soil

Full sun. Average soil amended with organic matter.

Watering and Fertilizing

Water deeply after planting, then weekly first summer. Established plants tolerate drought but prefer even moisture. No fertilizer first year; thereafter, light balanced granular feed in early spring.

Pruning

Remove dead wood late winter/early spring. S. prunifolia (bridal wreath) blooms on old wood—prune after flowering. S. japonica blooms on new wood—prune late winter; light trim after first bloom encourages second flush. Rejuvenate by removing ⅓ oldest stems annually for three years.

Uses

Foundation plantings, hedges, mixed borders, and mass plantings. Many dwarf cultivars available.