Spiraea japonica (Japanese Meadowsweet)

Spiraea japonica (Japanese Meadowsweet) with cream green foliage and tiny pink flower clusters on branches

Botanical name: Spiraea japonica

Common names: Japanese Meadowsweet, Japanese Spiraea, Korean Spiraea

Family: Rosaceae

Origin: Japan, China, Korea

USDA Zone: 4-9

Plant form: Small

Mature height: 2-5 ft

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade

Cold tolerance: Tolerates light freezing to about 30°F for short periods (mature plants). Young plants must be protected.

Watering: Regular; moderate

Flower color: Pink

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Foliage: Deciduous

Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Spiraea japonica is a small deciduous shrub, native to Japan, China, and Korea, that can achieve a height of 2-5 feet and width of 3-5 feet when mature. This plant should be grown in full sun to semi-shade and in well-drained soils. It will tolerate regular water or moderate water, but cannot handle too much water, as it is not tolerant of saturated soils. It is an attractive plant, with tiny pink flowers in flat-topped clusters that arrive in summertime. It is a popular plant amongst butterfly and hummingbird enthusiasts as it will attract both of these species when grown in a garden.

For growers in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9, Spiraea japonica can be grown in pots, either indoors or outdoors. For those who live in colder regions, this plant should be kept indoors during the winter. For the best care, Spiraea japonica should be mulched and watered regularly. Pruning should not be necessary if the plant is grown in an area with ample sunlight.