Spiraea tomentosa aka Steeplebush
Taxonomy ID: 13964
Spiraea tomentosa, also known as steeplebush, meadowsweet, or hardhack, is a vigorous, deciduous shrub native to the eastern United States and Canada. It grows to about 1.2m tall and forms a thicket of upright brownish stems that are felted when young. The leaves are yellowish-green on top and grey-felted beneath. During late summer, this shrub produces dense, terminal panicles of purplish-pink flowers. It has a mound-shaped growth habit and its slender, wand-like stems are unbranched and erect, reaching a height of 3 to 4-1/2 ft. The bark is orange to reddish-brown and exfoliating, while the fall foliage turns yellow.
Common names
Steeplebush, Meadowsweet, HardhackMore information about Steeplebush
How difficult is it to take care of Steeplebush
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Steeplebush is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
What is the growth pattern and size of Steeplebush?
New growth will sprout from the top of the Steeplebush as it grows vertically.
What is the region of origin of Steeplebush
Steeplebush’s native range is N. and C. Europe. Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Manitoba, south to Georgia and Kansas.
What are the water needs for Steeplebush
Steeplebush should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Steeplebush
Steeplebush is very sensitive to dry soil. To ensure your Meadowsweet is thriving and blooming, choose a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still allow for adequate drainage and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great soil additives that will help to retain moisture and provide your Hardhack with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. Make sure to mix these soil additives into the potting soil before planting and water the soil thoroughly. By providing your Steeplebush with a well-draining, moisture-retaining soil, you can help to maximize its growth and keep it blooming.
What is the sunlight requirement for Steeplebush
To ensure optimal growth, the Steeplebush prefers bright indirect 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.
How to fertilize Steeplebush
The Steeplebush should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Is Steeplebush toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Spiraea Genus

Spiraea tomentosa Steeplebush

Spiraea douglasii Rose Spirea
Spiraea media Russian Spiraea

Spiraea thunbergii Thunberg's Meadowsweet
Spiraea canescens Himalayan Spiraea

Spiraea trilobata Asian Meadowsweet

Spiraea alba White Meadowsweet
Spiraea betulifolia White Spirea
