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Description
Spiraea Japonica Shirobana, commonly known as Japanese spirea, is a deciduous shrub that originated from Japan and China. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and foliage. The plant grows up to a height of 2-3 feet and has a spread of 3-4 feet. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a bluish-green color. The plant blooms in summer with pink and white flowers that are arranged in flat-topped clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Spiraea |
Appearance
The Spiraea Japonica Shirobana shrub has an upright, mounded form with arching branches. The leaves are 1-3 inches long and 0.5-1.5 inches wide, and have a bluish-green color. The flowers are arranged in flat-topped clusters that are 2-4 inches wide, and are pink and white in color. The plant blooms in summer, typically in June and July, and the flowers attract bees and butterflies. In the fall, the leaves turn a reddish-orange color before dropping.
Care Guide
Spiraea Japonica Shirobana is a low-maintenance shrub that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:
Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Spiraea Japonica Shirobana is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spiraea Japonica Shirobana is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Spiraea Japonica Shirobana is native to Japan and China, but has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. It grows well in a variety of habitats, including gardens, landscapes, and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: When does Spiraea Japonica Shirobana bloom?
A: The plant blooms in summer, typically in June and July.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Spiraea Japonica Shirobana?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Spiraea Japonica Shirobana?
A: The plant can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Q: What is the size of Spiraea Japonica Shirobana?
A: The plant grows up to a height of 2-3 feet and has a spread of 3-4 feet.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Spiraea Japonica Shirobana:
- Spiraea Japonica ‘Goldflame’
- Spiraea Thunbergii
- Spiraea Vanhouttei
References
- “Spiraea japonica ‘Shirobana’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c810.
- “Spiraea japonica Shirobana.” Gardenia. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/spiraea-japonica-shirobana-japanese-spirea.
- “Spiraea japonica ‘Shirobana’.” Plant Finder. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/105/shirobana-japanese-spirea/.
