Japanese Spirea Lime Mound

Spiraea japonica (sp-i-REE-a ja-PON-i-ka)

Family: Rosaceae Unknown Shrub (3-15 ft)

Limemound® spiraea is a woody, perennial, deciduous shrub in the rose family (Rosaceae) that grows 2 to 4 feet high and wide. It is a hybrid cross between Spiraea japonica and Spiraea albiflora . Limemound spiraea requires full sun to partial shade and rich, moist, well-drained soils. It will tolerate a wide range of soils. Prune in the late winter to early spring as flowers appear on new wood. Deadheading will encourage additional blooms. Propagate by dividing the root ball in the spring or fall, or by softwood cuttings in the summer. Note that it freely self-seeds. This spirea resists deer, pollution, poor soil and urban conditions. It boasts numerous star-shaped pink flowers that appear in late spring and last until mid-summer attracting bees and butterflies. Its leaves are lime green and its stems are red/burgundy. Plant this compact, mounding shrub as a specimen or use it in small groups along a shrub border, as a foundation planting or a low hedge. It is equally at home in a naturalized area, a patio, or alongside a walkway. Place it in a cottage, cutting, butterfly, pollinator or rock garden. Plant it on a slope or bank to help prevent erosion. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Can be susceptible to leaf spot, fire blight, scale, aphids, root rot and powdery mildew. Its self-seeding and suckering can allow this plant to get out of control if not closely monitored. VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens. More information on Spiraea japonica .

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 59 attributes.