Slender Deutzia
Deutzia gracilis
Saxifragaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · introduced
Last updated
Slender deutzia (Deutzia gracilis, Saxifragaceae) is a compact deciduous shrub from Japan, reaching 2 to 4 feet tall. Small white five-petaled flowers (13 to 19 millimeters) cover the plant in April to May. Opposite, oblong-lanceolate leaves (2.5 to 7.5 centimeters) on slender arching branches create a graceful form.
Slender deutzia grows in sun to part shade on adaptable, well-drained soils with moderate water needs, tolerating clay, hardy in Zones 4a to 8b. It blooms on old wood; prune immediately after flowering. No significant pest or disease issues are documented. Cultivars include 'Nikko' (2 feet, dense mounding, burgundy fall color) and 'Chardonnay Pearls' (3 feet, chartreuse-yellow foliage).
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of May 24, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 2172.5 to 2394 GDD₃₂. Slender Deutzia has passed 'first bloom' (1229 GDD₃₂).
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of May 24, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 2,394 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 2,373 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 2,332 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 2,295 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 2,259 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 2,256 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 2,173 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
View full calendar (1 stages)
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| ● 'First bloom' BBCH '61' NOW | 1229 | '' |
Source: 'Master catalog (OSU, UMD), converted GDD50->GDD32 via Kent bloom-date mapping' About GDD₃₂ →
Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of May 24, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through Jun 9, 2026, then climate normals.