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Description
Spiraea Alba, also known as White Meadowsweet or White Spirea, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It is part of the Rosaceae family and can grow up to 2-6 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide. The plant features a fountain-like form with arching branches that bear serrated green leaves. During the summer months, the shrub produces clusters of fragrant white or pink flowers that bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Spiraea |
Appearance
Spiraea Alba is a bushy deciduous shrub that grows in a fountain-like form. The plant has arching branches with serrated green leaves that are 2-4 inches long. The shrub produces clusters of fragrant white or pink flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers are about 1/4 inch in diameter and have five petals. The plant’s fruit is a small capsule that contains tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Spiraea Alba is an easy-to-care-for shrub that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season and ensure the soil stays moist. However, avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring using a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including acidic and alkaline soils.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Spiraea Alba is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spiraea Alba is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. To prevent these diseases, ensure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If the plant has been infected, remove the affected leaves and stems and apply a fungicide.
Habitat
Spiraea Alba is native to North America and can be found growing in wetlands, meadows, and along stream banks. The plant prefers full sunlight or partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, including acidic and alkaline soils.
Question and Answer
Q1: How often should I water Spiraea Alba?
A1: Water the plant regularly during the growing season and ensure the soil stays moist. However, avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Q2: What is the hardiness zone for Spiraea Alba?
A2: Spiraea Alba is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Q3: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Spiraea Alba?
A3: Spiraea Alba is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust.
Q4: What is the best time to fertilize Spiraea Alba?
A4: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring using a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
– Spiraea japonica (Japanese Spirea)- Spiraea x vanhouttei (Vanhoutte Spirea)- Spiraea betulifolia (Birchleaf Spirea)- Spiraea douglasii (Hardhack)
References
– “Spiraea Alba – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j150.- “Spiraea Alba.” North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/spiraea-alba/.- “Spiraea Alba – White Meadowsweet.” Minnesota Wildflowers, www.minnesotawildflowers.info/shrub/white-meadowsweet.
