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Description
Spiraea Japonica Firelight, also known as Japanese Meadowsweet, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a hybrid variety that was developed in the Netherlands and is known for its striking foliage and beautiful flowers. The plant is native to Japan, China, and Korea and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. It is a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers due to its vibrant color and easy maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Spiraea |
Appearance
The Spiraea Japonica Firelight has bright gold to orange-red leaves that turn to a rich red in the fall. The plant blooms in the summer with clusters of small, pink flowers that attract butterflies and bees. The flowers are followed by small, brown fruit capsules that persist into the winter. The shrub has a dense, mounded growth habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape and size.
Care Guide
The Spiraea Japonica Firelight is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic soil. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season and benefits from an annual application of fertilizer in the spring. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spiraea Japonica Firelight is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and spider mites. Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Leaf spot can be controlled by removing infected leaves and providing good drainage. Spider mites can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Spiraea Japonica Firelight is native to Japan, China, and Korea and is commonly found in forests, meadows, and along riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sunlight. The plant is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can Spiraea Japonica Firelight grow?
A: Spiraea Japonica Firelight can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.
Q: What is the best soil type for Spiraea Japonica Firelight?
A: Spiraea Japonica Firelight prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
Q: What are some common pests that affect Spiraea Japonica Firelight?
A: Spiraea Japonica Firelight can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and spider mites.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Spiraea Japonica Firelight?
A: Spiraea Japonica Firelight is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Spiraea japonica ‘Gold Flame’
- Spiraea japonica ‘Neon Flash’
- Spiraea japonica ‘Magic Carpet’
- Spiraea thunbergii
References
- “Spiraea japonica ‘Firelight’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c297
- “Spiraea japonica ‘Firelight’.” Fine Gardening. https://www.finegardening.com/plant/spiraea-japonica-firelight
- “Spiraea Japonica Firelight.” Garden Design. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/spiraea-japonica-firelight.html
