Spiraea: Two Types, Both Easy and Beautiful

Spiraeas are easy-to-grow shrubs that come in two distinct forms. The bridal wreath type has long, arching branches forming a vase-shaped shrub covered in small white flowers in early spring. Summer-blooming spiraeas form smaller, rounded mounds with white or pink blossoms, often in flat-topped clusters. Both types are unfussy about soil and moderately fast-growing. In the warmest areas, they appreciate afternoon shade.

S. japonica (Japanese Spiraea)

Zones 2–9, 14–21, 32–41. Ranges from 1½–4½ ft. tall with a naturally mounding form and long summer bloom. Oval, serrated leaves 1½–4 in. long. 'Shirobana' is a popular 2–3 ft. mound with white, light pink, and deep rose flower clusters all on the same plant.

Pruning: Remove older branches to ground level in late winter to early spring, just before dormancy ends.

S. vanhouttei (Bridal Wreath Spiraea)

Zones 1–11, 14–21, 29–43. The classic bridal wreath. Mid- to late spring through early summer, leafy branches are covered in circular, flattened clusters of small (½ in.) single white blossoms. Dark green, slightly oval, serrated leaves 1–1½ in. long. Reaches 6–8 ft. tall and wide—give it room.

Pruning: Cut old or oversized branches back to the ground after bloom.

Whether you choose the spring-flowering fountain or the summer-blooming mound, spiraea delivers reliable beauty with minimal care.