Japanese spirea (Spiraea japonica 'Alpina’) spy-REE-ah jah-PON-ih-kah Genus:  Spiraea This low-growing, clump-forming shrub has a spreading habit, reaching 10 inches tall. Slender branches spread across the ground. Foliage is light blue-green to 1 inch long. In late June, this plant bears clusters of pink flowers; bloom continues into September if deadheaded. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Makes a good front-of-the-border or edge-of-the-woods garden plant. Care:  Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil and full sun. Propagation:  Take greenwood cuttings in summer. Problems:  Dieback, fireblight, powdery mildew, and Cylindrocladium leaf spot can affect it. Weevils, scale insects, and aphids.

Overview

Height 6 in. to 12 in. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Pink Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers Style Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Shrubs