Japanese Spirea

Spiraea japonica

Rosaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · introduced

Last updated

Data Maturity Structured

This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.

Japanese spirea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan and China, reaching 2-4 feet tall with small, lance-shaped leaves and flat clusters of pink to magenta flowers appearing mid- to late summer. The plant is compact and spreading.

Japanese spirea is hardy to zones 3-8 and thrives in full sun to light shade with well-drained soil and moderate moisture. It is fast-growing and responds well to pruning; regular pruning maintains shape and encourages dense bloom. Multiple cultivars are available with selections for flower color, foliage variegation, and compact size.

Quick Facts

Height
4–5 ft
Light
Sun to Part Shade
Soil
Moist
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
Zone Zones 4a–8b
Bloom Time
June to July
Fall Color
Bronze, crimson, golden, orange, pink, red, russet, yellow
Origin
Japan and China, considered highly variable and has been

Diseases (2)

Pests (3)

Cultivars (8)

'Anthony Waterer'
Common name: Anthony Waterer Spirea Dwarf Red Spirea; Mature height: 2–4 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
'Bumalda'
Common name: Bumald Spirea; Mature height: 2–4 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 3
'Goldflame'
Common name: Goldflame Spirea; Mature height: 3–4 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
'Goldmound'
Common name: Goldmound Spirea; Mature height: 2–3 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
'Lemon Princess'
Common name: Lemon Princess Spirea; Mature height: 5–2 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
'Limemound'
Common name: Limemound Spirea; Mature height: 3 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 3
'Little Princess'
Common name: Little Princess Spirea; Mature height: 3 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
'Magic Carpet'
Common name: Magic Carpet Spirea; Mature height: 2–3 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4