Spiraea japonica aka Japanese Spiraea
Taxonomy
Spiraea japonica, also known as Japanese meadowsweet or Japanese spiraea, is a compact, rounded, deciduous shrub that grows to about 50cm tall. It features mounds of bright, colorful foliage throughout the season, with pale bronze-orange spring leaves that turn green in summer and then return to a pale bronze-orange, tinted red in autumn. From midsummer onwards, the shrub produces pink flowers in flattened heads. Spiraea japonica belongs to the family Rosaceae and has alternate, simple leaves on wiry, freely branching, erect stems. These stems are brown to reddish-brown, round in cross-section, and occasionally hairy. This shrub can reach a height of 1.2m to almost 2m, with a similar width. Synonyms for this species include Spiraea bumalda Burv. and Spiraea japonica var. alpina Maxim.
Common names
Japanese Spiraea, Japanese Meadowsweet, Fortune Meadowsweet, Ornamental SpiraeaHow to care for Japanese Spiraea
Difficulty
Japanese Spiraea requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Japanese Spiraea should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
When growing Japanese Spiraea, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Japanese Spiraea with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Japanese Spiraea from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Japanese Spiraea regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Japanese Spiraea will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Japanese Spiraea prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Japanese Spiraea to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Fertilizer
The Japanese Spiraea should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Japanese Spiraea’s native range is E. Asia - Japan.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Spiraea Genus
Spiraea blumei
Spiraea trilobata Asian Meadowsweet
Spiraea betulifolia aemiliana
Spiraea salicifolia Bridewort
Spiraea douglasii Rose Spirea
Spiraea prunifolia Bridal Wreath Spiraea
Spiraea betulifolia White Spirea
Spiraea hypericifolia Iberian Spirea
Spiraea henryi
