Spiraea cantoniensis aka Reeves' Meadowsweet

Spiraea cantoniensis is a shrub in the rose family. It comes from southeast China and sheds its leaves. Gardeners call it Reeve's spiraea or bridal-wreath. Its long branches bend outwards to form a broad mound. Garden plants reach about 4–8 feet (1.2–2.5 m) tall. Their spread can match their height. Some accounts give a smaller range of 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m). Plants can take five to ten years to reach full size.

Thin, smooth, brown stems grow in clumps from the base. The bark adds little to the plant's winter appeal. The simple leaves grow in turn along each stem. They are dark green above, with pale grey-green undersides. Their edges have deep teeth or three uneven lobes. Leaves measure about 1–2.5 inches long and feel smooth. They can turn yellow in fall, adding late-season color.

Small flowers form dense, rounded clusters along the arching stems. Most are white, though some may have a pink tint. Each flower has five petals, and clusters reach two inches across. The flowers have a pleasant scent and draw butterflies. Bloom falls in spring, or early summer in some gardens. In its native China, flowering occurs in May. Small, dry, brown fruits follow the flowers. These contain several seeds but add little visual interest.

Grow this shrub in sun or light shade. Deep shade leads to thin growth and fewer flowers. Some shelter from hot afternoon sun can limit leaf scorch. It suits clay, loam, sand, and chalk soils. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline ground with good drainage. Moist soil suits it, but it also withstands some drought. Avoid wet ground. RHS rates it H6 for cold hardiness. US sources differ, listing zones 5–8 and 7–9. Reports also differ on its salt tolerance.

Use it as a hedge, screen, border shrub, or lone specimen. Its broad form also suits loose groups and informal gardens. Leave room for the branches to spread without close clipping. Prune after bloom when size control is needed. Serious pest trouble is uncommon, and deer seldom damage it. Aphids can curl leaves, while leaf rollers bind them together. Scale insects may also attack stems. Possible diseases include fire blight, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Honey fungus can occur too. The supplied sources establish neither edible uses nor toxicity.