Spiraea Tomentosa

Description

Spiraea Tomentosa, commonly known as steeplebush, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to North America and is found in moist meadows, bogs, marshes, and along streambanks. Spiraea Tomentosa can grow up to 3-5 feet tall and wide. It has a spreading growth habit with arching branches that are covered with small pink to rosy-purple flowers in mid-summer. The flowers are lightly fragrant and are clustered in dense, pyramidal-shaped inflorescences. The foliage is dark green in color and turns reddish-purple in the fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Spiraea Tomentosa is a stunning shrub that adds color and texture to any garden. Its branches are slender and arching, with a reddish-brown color. The leaves are oval-shaped, with a serrated edge, and are dark green in color. They turn reddish-purple in the fall before dropping. The flowers are small, pink to rosy-purple, and are arranged in dense, pyramidal-shaped inflorescences. The inflorescences can reach up to 6 inches in length and bloom in mid-summer. Spiraea Tomentosa has a spreading growth habit and can grow up to 3-5 feet tall and wide.

Care Guide

Spiraea Tomentosa is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for optimal growth:

Water: Spiraea Tomentosa prefers moist soil, so water regularly, especially during periods of drought.

Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.

Soil: Spiraea Tomentosa prefers well-drained, acidic soil. If your soil is heavy, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.

Sunlight: Spiraea Tomentosa prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.

Hardiness Zones: Spiraea Tomentosa is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Spiraea Tomentosa is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. If necessary, treat with a fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Spiraea Tomentosa can also be attacked by spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Spiraea Tomentosa is native to North America and is found in moist meadows, bogs, marshes, and along streambanks. It prefers wet soil and can tolerate flooding for short periods. It is an important food source for butterflies and other pollinators.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Spiraea Tomentosa invasive?

A: No, Spiraea Tomentosa is not considered invasive. It is a native plant that is well-behaved in the garden.

Q: Can Spiraea Tomentosa be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Spiraea Tomentosa can be grown in containers. However, it may not reach its full size potential and will require more frequent watering.

Q: How often should I prune Spiraea Tomentosa?

A: Prune Spiraea Tomentosa in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. If necessary, you can also shape the shrub at this time.

Q: Can I propagate Spiraea Tomentosa?

A: Yes, Spiraea Tomentosa can be propagated by softwood cuttings taken in early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings in a bright, but not direct, light until they have rooted.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Spiraea Tomentosa:

• Spiraea japonica
• Spiraea vanhouttei
• Spiraea betulifolia
• Spiraea prunifolia

References

• “Spiraea Tomentosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286791.
• “Spiraea Tomentosa.” North Carolina State University, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/spiraea-tomentosa/.
• “Steeplebush.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/spiraea_tomentosa.shtml.