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Rosaceae
Spirea
Spiraea
Victory, reflection, peace, love.
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Genus
- Spiraea
- Native to
- Northern Hemisphere temperate regions
- Bloom season
- Spring, Summer
- Type
- deciduous shrub
- Height
- 0.6–2.5 m
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil
- Well-drained, average
- Water
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- 3–9
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Did you know
- Spirea is the original source of salicylic acid — the active ingredient in aspirin was first isolated from Spiraea ulmaria, and the drug was named 'a-spirin' in its honor.
- Bridal wreath spirea (S. × vanhouttei) has been a fixture in old American gardens for over 150 years, prized for its cascading white sprays in May.
- Spireas are exceptionally easy to grow — they tolerate almost any soil, drought, and pruning, making them favorites of beginner gardeners.
- There are about 80 species, ranging from low ground covers to tall arching shrubs.
- The name 'Spiraea' comes from the Greek word for 'spiral' or 'wreath' — used because the flowers were traditionally woven into garlands.