31 Beautiful Spirea Varieties For Your Landscape

Are you thinking of adding a spirea or two to your garden? There are many different species and varieties of spirea for you to choose from. In this article, gardening expert Jill Drago looks at some popular and beautiful varieties of spirea for your landscape!

A close-up of a Spiraea variety with numerous light purple blooms. These blossoms create a striking visual contrast against the lush green leaves and branches of the plant. The delicate and vibrant blooms add a touch of whimsical charm to the overall composition.

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Spirea are beloved plants in many gardens because they are easy to care for and add such a beautiful pop of color throughout the year. There are spirea varieties that fit in well with almost any garden style.

These perennial shrubs produce lacey flowers in a variety of colors, as well as small foliage that comes in a range of different shades of green. Some bloom in late spring, while others bloom during fall. 

Listed below are 31 beautiful varieties of spirea for you to choose from. Whether you are looking for a large or small shrub, white or pink flowers, or anything in between, there’s a spirea for everyone!

Spiraea alba ‘Audubon Meadowsweet’ 

A close-up of Spiraea alba 'Audubon Meadowsweet' plant reveals its unique white flowers with delicate petals, creating an ethereal sight. The vivid green leaves provide a striking contrast, adding to the plant's overall charm.
‘Audubon Meadowsweet’ produces small white or pink flowers in clusters throughout the summer into fall.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea alba
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 3-4 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-7

Spiraea alba is a species of spirea native to North America. The growth habit is a tad more unruly than some of the other spireas that you may be familiar with. This spirea will bloom from the beginning of summer into the fall with tiny white or pink flowers grouped together in clusters. 

Due to its wild growth habit, Spirea alba would suit a woodland edge garden very nicely. However, in a cottage garden, its beautiful flowers combined with its growth habit would be completely charming. 

Spiraea albiflora 

A close-up of Spiraea albiflora plants showcases their distinct white blossoms, each with an individual allure. The supple branches and vibrant greenery form an intricate backdrop, enhancing the beauty of these captivating plants.
You can incorporate Japanese white spirea in various ways for an extended display of color throughout the year.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea albiflora
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 1-2 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-8

Also known as Japanese white spirea, Spiraea albiflora is a compact spirea. In summer, this small plant will nearly explode with frothy white flowers nicely accented by its deep green foliage. 

Add Japanese white spirea to containers for three seasons of color. Another great way to use this plant in your landscape is as a low hedge around a walkway or patio. 

Spiraea betulifolia ‘Tor’ 

A close-up of Spiraea betulifolia 'Tor' plant.  A cluster of white flowers emerges from the plant, evoking a sense of purity and elegance. The lush green leaves in the background contribute to the plant's graceful aesthetics.
To ensure the best results, remember to prune ‘Tor’ in late winter or early spring.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea betulifolia ‘Tor’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 2-3 feet 
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-8

If compact spirea is what you are searching for, look no further than ‘Tor.’ Its delicate flowers and gorgeous foliage make this variety the total package. 

This beautiful birchleaf spirea blooms in late spring to early summer with small white flowers. These flowers will completely cover the foliage. When autumn rolls around, the foliage will be the star of the show. Turning from green to orange and finally reddish purple in autumn, ‘Tor’ is a multi-season beauty. 

Since this is a nice compact spirea, it is a good choice for a low-growing hedge. Be sure to prune in late winter or early spring because ‘Tor’ blooms on new wood. 

Spiraea betulifolia ‘Tor Gold’ 

A close-up of Spiraea betulifolia 'Tor Gold' plant unveils glossy, moist pale red leaves attached to robust branches, creating an inviting, saturated appearance. The interplay of water droplets enhances the leaf's visual appeal.
With flat flower clusters and everchanging leaves, ‘Tor Gold’ is the shrub to choose for your garden.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea betulifolia ‘Tor Gold’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 3-4 feet 
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-9

If you seek a spirea with multi-season beauty, ‘Tor Gold’ is the shrub for you! With flat flower clusters and everchanging leaves, ‘Tor Gold’ is a perfect garden addition.

This birchleaf spirea is something to behold. The flowers are white, and they open from pink buds in late spring or early summer. The summer foliage is a bright, sunny yellow that turns orange or red as winter approaches. 

Plant ‘Tor Gold’ as a specimen plant, or add it to your foundation gardens. This spirea blooms on new wood. Be sure to prune in late winter or early spring!

Spiraea douglassi (Western Spirea)

A close-up of Spiraea douglassi (Western Spirea) plants showcases purple spikes of flowers that stand out amid the sea of vibrant green leaves. The textured leaves and sturdy stems provide a fascinating backdrop for this enchanting botanical composition.
If needed, trim the western spirea to tidy its shape immediately after flowering.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea douglassi
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 4-6 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 5-8

In a world of spirea that can sometimes be invasive, Western spirea is a native option to the Pacific Northwest! This species of spirea grows well in moist soil and attracts butterflies into your garden

The western spirea is a clump-forming shrub. The foliage is deep green with a white underside. Western spirea is a late spring or early summer bloomer. At this time of the year, you will notice pink flowers blooming on the tips of the branches. These flowers are long plumes and fragrant. 

Use western spirea in wet areas of your yard or along a woodland edge for a pop of pink! Prune this spirea as soon as it has finished flowering, if necessary, to neaten up the shape a bit. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Butterscotch Baby’ 

A close-up of Spiraea japonica ‘Butterscotch Baby’ reveals delicate, light purple flowers adorning the light green leaves, forming a harmonious contrast. The intricate, petal-filled blooms create an exquisite display of nature's craftsmanship.
Remember that ‘Butterscotch Baby’ is a deciduous plant and will shed its leaves.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Minspiz02’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 1-2 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

‘Butterscotch Baby’ will provide three seasons of color to your gardens. This petite spirea variety will be covered in bright pink flowers in the summertime. In fall, the foliage will take on a caramel, almost red, hint. 

This petite spirea makes an adorable addition to containers or smaller perennial gardens. ‘Butterscotch Baby’ is deciduous and will lose its leaves. Be sure to plant it near evergreen plants so you do not experience any gaps. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Daphne’ 

A close-up of Spiraea japonica 'Daphne' plant. The light purple flowers are nestled in clusters and their structural elegance a testament to nature's precision. Surrounding them are vibrant green leaves, providing a backdrop that accentuates the floral beauty.
The ‘Daphne’ spirea’s flowers are perfect for cut flower arrangements.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Alpina’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 1-2 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

The Daphne spirea is a low-growing shrub that can spread up to 5 feet wide! During summer, this spirea will be covered in flat-topped clusters of pink flowers. The foliage is a very attractive shade of blue-green. 

The low yet wide growing shape of this rounded shrub would lend itself nicely to a foundation garden. The flowers of the Daphne spirea make excellent cut flowers! If you can spare some, snip a few stems and bring them indoors!

Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play® Big Bang’ 

A close-up of Spiraea japonica or Big Bang showcases a profusion of light pink flower clusters amidst lush greenery. Branches adorned with vibrant green leaves reach out, creating a captivating spectacle of color and life.
To promote a second blooming cycle, remember to deadhead ‘Big Bang.’
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play® Big Bang’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-8

‘Big Bang’ is a variety of spirea growing in popularity, and for good reasons. This plant is colorful and versatile, with many uses in your garden

The everchanging colors of the foliage of ‘Big Bang’ is only one of the beautiful traits of this spirea. Beginning in spring with a bright shade of orange, the leaves will change to yellow and finally red. In the summertime, ‘Big Bang’ will produce bright pink clusters of flowers that bloom on the tips of the branches. 

Be sure to deadhead ‘Big Bang’ to encourage a second round of blooms. Aside from that, this spirea requires very little maintenance. If you need to do pruning, do so in late winter or early spring to avoid snipping off flower buds. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play ® Blue Kazoo’ 

A close-up of Spiraea japonica 'Blue Kazoo' with clusters of white flowers revealing an intricate structural design. The branches are adorned with green leaves that envelop the blooms, creating a serene and verdant atmosphere.
For prolonged flowering on your ‘Blue Kazoo’, be sure to remove spent flowers through deadheading.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play® Blue Kazoo’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

‘Blue Kazoo’ is a unique and compact spirea. The hues of the foliage make it great for a garden where you are looking for something softer. 

In summer, ‘Blue Kazoo’ will produce large white flower clusters that will bloom on the tips of the branches. The real fun in this plant is the foliage.  Most of the season, the leaves of ‘Blue Kazoo’ will be blue-green and turn red in autumn.

This is a nice low-maintenance spirea. Plant ‘Blue Kazoo’ as a low-growing hedge or in your foundation gardens. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continued blooming!

Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play ® Candy Corn’ 

A close-up of Spiraea japonica ‘Candy Corn’ displays glossy green leaves on branches, exuding a vibrant and lively appearance. The striking contrast between these leaves and the vivid pink flowers makes for an enchanting visual composition.
You can use multiple plants of ‘Double Play® Candy Corn’ to form a short hedge.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play® Candy Corn’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 1-2 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-7

‘Candy Corn’ brings a dash of color to your garden all year. With color-changing foliage and deep purple flowers, this variety will make a fierce impact on your gardens. 

The foliage on ‘Candy Corn’ opens in a bright shade of orange and will fade to a tropical shade of yellow. Every new leaf will emerge orange, and the foliage will have a fun multicolored appearance all season. During summer, bright purple clusters of flowers begin to bloom. 

The smaller size of ‘Candy Corn’ makes it a great choice for larger containers. Plant this spirea in a mass as a low-growing hedge, or add it to a foundation or perennial garden. After a few seasons, ‘Candy Corn’ will be able to tolerate drought

Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play® Doozie’ 

A close-up reveals Spiraea japonica flowers, delicate pink blooms intricately clustered together, showcasing their captivating beauty. The green leaves gracefully intermingle with the pink floral display, creating a harmonious balance in this natural composition.
‘Double Play® Doozie’ is a compact spirea that does not require much pruning.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘NCSX2’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-9

If you are looking for a three-season bold addition to your garden, give ‘Doozie’ a try. New foliage emerges in spring in a bright red hue before mellowing to a mid-green for the rest of the summer. The flowers are a glowing reddish-pink hue and will continue to bloom all summer. 

‘Double Play® Doozie’ is a compact spirea that does not require much pruning. Due to its compact size, it is easy to add this spirea to any garden, but it makes a very nice addition to a perennial garden. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play® Red’ 

A close-up of Spiraea japonica 'Double Play Red". The vibrant pink flower clusters take center stage with their striking color commanding attention. The intricate structures of these flowers add an element of intrigue, while the lush green leaves form a lush backdrop, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Plant ‘Double Play® Red’ near a walkway or front door for three-season color.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘SMNSJMFR’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-8

‘Double Play® Red’ is a truly beautiful spirea. Throughout the three seasons of interest that this spirea variety provides, there is always a touch of red present. New foliage grows in a deep cranberry red, while the summer leaves are a beautiful true green. In the summer, this spirea will be loaded with crimson flowers

Cluster a few of these spireas together for maximum impact. Plant ‘Double Play® Red’ near a walkway or front door for three seasons of color. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Goldmound’ 

A close-up of the Goldmound Spirea variety. Its yellow-green leaves, juxtaposed against the ground's fallen leaves, offer a vivid contrast. The surrounding gray rocks provide a rustic setting, creating a picturesque scene in nature's gallery.
The softer hues of ‘Goldmound’ make it a perfect fit for vibrant gardens alongside evergreen shrubs.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Goldmound’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-8

As the name may suggest, ‘Goldmound’ has brilliant golden yellow foliage. In the summer, this shrub will host profuse pink flowers. When fall rolls around, the foliage will turn to a warm orange

The softer colors of ‘Goldmound’ will meld nicely in a bolder garden with bright colors or evergreen shrubs. Try adding ‘Goldmound’ to a woodland edge with rhododendrons or close to a Japanese maple. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Lil’ Flirt’ 

A close-up of the 'Lil' Flirt' plant reveals enchanting light purple flower clusters in all their splendor. The green leaves on the branches serve as a perfect canvas for this floral masterpiece, combining hues and textures in a delightful botanical display.
‘Lil’ Flirt’ is a versatile compact spirea that can find a place in your garden in various ways.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘SMSJMLA’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

‘Lil’ Flirt’ is a gorgeously compact and re-blooming spirea. This plant shines with colorful foliage and the traditionally beautiful flowers we expect from spirea. 

When the foliage emerges, it will be burgundy and eventually turn green as the season progresses. ‘Lil’ Flirt’ will bloom twice for you, once in spring and then again in summertime. These flowers are deep pink and form in clusters which will bloom at the end of the stems. 

‘Lil’ Flirt’ is a compact spirea and can be used in many different ways in your garden. You can plant this spirea in containers, as a low-growing hedge, or in your flower beds. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Lil’ Sizzle’ 

A close-up of the spirited beauty of Spiraea japonica 'Lil' Sizzle,' showcasing its vibrant light purple flower clusters. Resting atop lush green leaves and branches, they signify both growth and vitality, creating a magnificent visual tapestry of nature's artistry.
During the spring and summer, ‘Lil’ Sizzle’ bursts into hot pink clusters of blooms.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘SMSJMLG’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

‘Lil’ Sizzle’ is a fun spirea with a colorful punch. This compact spirea provides stunning three-season color with its trademark toughness

When new foliage appears, it will come with a fun orange hue that will eventually fade to green as the summer progresses. This spirea will bloom in the spring and summer in hot pink clusters. 

This spirea is compact and tolerant of many growing conditions. Try adding it to a large container, to a front walkway, or your flower beds. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess’ 

A close-up of Spiraea japonica 'Little Princess' reveals delicate light purple flowers, resembling soft cotton balls with fine, hair-like protrusions emanating from the flower centers. The lush green leaves beneath them provide a verdant backdrop.
‘Little Princess’ boasts light pink flower clusters that bloom throughout the summer.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

If you are seeking a lighter-colored spirea that still makes a big impact on your yard, ‘Little Princess’ is a great option for you. 

‘Little Princess’ blooms in light pink clusters of flowers throughout the summer. The foliage is a lighter mint green than other spirea varieties. 

This makes a great plant swap if you love hydrangeas but have too much sun for the mophead varieties. ‘Little Princess’ is a neat and tidy-growing spirea that would make a great border plant along the front of your foundation garden or around a walkway or patio. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Magic Carpet’ 

Nestled in brown soil covered with fallen leaves, a Spiraea japonica 'Magic Carpet' plant thrives. Its lush green leaves feature a striking contrast, with young red leaves at its center, creating a captivating focal point amidst the earthy surroundings.
Perfect for small garden spaces, the ‘Magic Carpet’ spirea is an excellent choice if you love spirea.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Walbuma’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-8

If you love spirea but only have a small space in your garden, the ‘Magic Carpet’ spirea is perfect. 

While ‘Magic Carpet’ does produce pretty pink flowers, they are not the start of the show. The foliage emerges red, turns yellow, and finally wraps up the season in a deep, russet red. 

This is another small spirea that makes a great choice for large containers. The beautiful colors of the foliage will provide multi-season interest and would be a perfect display along a walkway or near your mailbox.

Spiraea japonica ‘Neon Splash’ 

A close-up of the Spiraea japonica 'Neon Splash' plant with vibrant pink, fuzzy flowers. The branches gracefully extend, bearing an abundance of lively leaves that add to the plant's visual appeal.
‘Neon Splash’ boasts mid-green leaves and a pleasing, mounded shape.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Neon Flash’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

For a bright pop of color throughout your gardens, look at the ‘Neon Splash’ spirea. This shrub has a nice mounded shape with mid-green leaves.

The bright, or neon, flowers will begin to bloom in summer and last into the fall if you deadhead. When the weather cools down, the foliage will take on a red tint. 

Add ‘Neon Splash’ to large containers, flower beds, and your cutting garden. The bright flowers will add a nice pop of color no matter where you plant this shrub. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Shirobana’ 

A close-up of Spiraea japonica 'Shirobana' showcases elegant light purple flower clusters atop its rich green leaves. The leaves and branches provide a sturdy support for these beautiful blooms, creating a picturesque scene.
Plant the ‘Shirobana’ spirea in your front yard as part of your foundation garden.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Shirobana’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4–9

The ‘Shirobana’ spirea is a low-growing variety of spirea. The bright green leaves create a nice backdrop for the multicolored white, pink, and red blossoms that cover this shrub in summertime. The stems of this spirea are slender and grow in a compact and mounded form. 

Plant ‘Shirobana’ in front of your house as part of your foundation garden, or add it in a mass planting around your patio for constant and dependable beauty. 

Spiraea japonica ‘Yeti’ 

A close-up of Spiraea japonica 'Yeti' captures its pristine white flowers, set against a backdrop of lush green leaves. The young green flower buds and intricate branches further enhance the charm of this enchanting plant.
‘Yeti’ is a compact spirea variety perfect for various garden applications.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea japonica ‘Conspiyet’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

‘Yeti’ is a repeat blooming spirea that will fill your garden with white fluffy flowers throughout most of the growing season. The white flowers will self-clean themselves for the most part and will only require a quick deadheading or light pruning to encourage a second round of blooms. 

Plant ‘Yeti’ has a low-growing hedge, or add it into your larger containers. This is a compact spirea variety and can be dappled throughout your flowering perennial gardens or foundation gardens as well. 

Spiraea nipponica ‘Snowmound’

A close-up of Spiraea nipponica ‘Snowmound’ reveals its delicate white flowers adorned with vibrant yellow centers. These exquisite blooms stand out against a backdrop of lush green leaves, showcasing the intricate beauty of nature.
Regardless of where you choose to plant it, enjoy the mesmerizing white blossoms of ‘Snowmound.’
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea nipponica ‘Snowmound’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 3-5 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-8

One of the more stunning spirea varieties. ‘Snowmound’ produces large and gracefully arching branches that will be covered in white blossoms beginning in the mid to late spring. The foliage is not overly showy but does create a nice green background for the clusters of flowers. 

‘Snowmound’ can grow up to five feet tall and would fit really nicely towards the back of a border or foundation garden. Wherever you plant this spirea, make sure you can marvel at the white blossoms.

Spiraea prunifolia ‘Bridal Wreath’

A close-up of Spiraea prunifolia captures a mesmerizing cluster of pristine white flowers in all their glory. Nestled among the emerald green leaves, the flowers create a captivating contrast, painting a picture of natural elegance.
‘Bridal Wreath’ features long, arching branches with an upright growth pattern.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea prunifolia
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 4-9 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-8

One of my favorite times in my garden is when my ‘Bridal Wreath,’ or Spirea prunifolia, blooms. This spirea has an upright growth habit with long arching branches.

The white flowers of this spirea variety resemble baby’s breath flowers. These flowers will cover the dramatic branches in early to mid-spring. In the fall, the foliage will offer nice color in shades of orange, red, and yellow.

‘Bridal Wreath’ makes an amazingly dramatic display when planted as a hedge or in a grouping. I have a hedge of ‘Bridal Wreath’ planted just along a woodland edge with dappled light, and they thrive!

Spiraea splendens 

A close-up of Spiraea splendens with pink flowers in a delightful cluster. Beneath this floral spectacle, verdant green leaves provide a striking canvas for these vibrant blossoms, making for a harmonious and picturesque scene.
Rose meadow spirea produces vibrant pink, pom-pom-like flowers in flat clusters.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea splendens
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 5-8

Rose meadow spirea, also known as Spiraea splendens, blooms from summer into fall with bright pink and flat-topped clusters of flowers. The flowers are fluffy and have a pom-pom-looking appearance. The foliage is a mid-green, which will fade to a golden yellow in the fall. 

The rose meadow spirea makes a colorful and cheery addition to foundation gardens. Since this spirea only grows to about three feet in height, it could also be used in perennial flower beds if you are looking to attract pollinators

Spiraea thunbergii ‘Mt. Fuji’ 

A close-up of Spiraea thunbergii ‘Mt. Fuji’ displays the intricate details of its branches adorned with lush green leaves. Towering above, the white flower spikes create a striking contrast to the background of other diverse plants and trees, showcasing the beauty of nature's diversity.
This unique spirea, ‘Mt. Fuji,’ boasts curly branches and can serve as an excellent specimen plant.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea thunbergii ‘Mt. Fuji’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun
height height 4-5 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 5-9

Blooming in mid-spring, ‘Mt. Fuji’ is a less common variety of spirea. The flowers of ‘Mt. Fuji’ are snowy white and bloom before new foliage appears on the plant.

When the leaves finally appear, they will be green with white variegation. In the fall, these leaves will turn yellow. 

‘Mt. Fuji’ has curly branches and would be nicely used as a specimen plant. Of course, as with most other spirea, it is particularly attractive when planted in mass. 

Spiraea x bumalda ‘Anthony Waterer’

Spiraea x bumalda ‘Anthony Waterer’ showcases its elegance with light purple flower clusters that possess a delicate, hairy texture. The backdrop of lush green leaves further enhances the overall charm of this exquisite plant, revealing nature's artistic handiwork.
Check if ‘Anthony Waterer’ is invasive in your area as it aggressively self-sows.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea x bumalda ‘Anthony Waterer’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun
height height 2-3 feet 
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

‘Anthony Waterer’ is a compact and mounded variety of spirea. It should be noted that this spirea is an aggressive seeder and will spread throughout your garden by suckering. Be aware of this before planting, and check to see if this shrub is invasive in your area

This variety of spirea brings interest to your garden in the spring, summer, and fall. In the late spring, the bright pink tufts of flowers will bloom. The foliage will begin as red in the spring, turn greenish blue in the summertime, and reddish-purple in the fall. 

‘Anthony Waterer’ is a heat-tolerant variety, making it a great choice for your landscape. Add it to foundation gardens or your perennial beds. This spirea blooms on new wood; therefore, pruning should be done in the late winter to early spring.

Spiraea x bumalda ‘Firelight’ 

A close-up of Spiraea x bumalda 'Firelight' leaves reveals their intricate beauty. These leaves transition from light green on the edges to striking reddish hues in the center, creating a captivating gradient of colors.
One of the more popular and easy-to-find spireas is ‘Firelight.’
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea x bumalda ‘Firelight’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-8

‘Firelight’ is one of the more popular and easy-to-find spirea varieties. The show is mostly in the foliage for this variety, although the pink flowers are quite pretty. New foliage will emerge bright orange or red and mature to yellow throughout the summer before finishing up the fall in a deep shade of red or purple. 

‘Firelight’ is great in containers or as a low border or hedge. Plant a few of these shrubs near deep green evergreen shrubs or in an area of your garden that could use some brightening up

Spiraea x bumalda ‘Golden Sunrise’ 

Spiraea x bumalda 'Golden Sunrise' plants feature delicate, light green leaves attached to soft stalks. Their gentle appearance adds a touch of elegance to the garden, with leaves that seem to sway in the breeze.
For a striking contrast amid shrubs sporting darker green leaves, consider adding ‘Golden Sunrise.’
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea x bumalda ‘Monhud’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 3-4 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

‘Golden Sunrise’ is a newer variety of spirea similar to ‘Goldflame’ with a few improvements. New foliage growth will emerge yellow, aging to a yellow-green in the summertime.

The cooler temperatures of autumn will bring orange foliage to this shrub. Smaller clusters of light pink flowers will appear throughout the summer. 

Add ‘Golden Sunrise’ as a contrasting plant among shrubs with deeper green leaves. ‘Golden Sunrise’ would make a lovely statement in a foundation garden or along a woodland border. 

Spiraea x bumalda ‘Goldflame’ 

A close-up of Spiraea x bumalda 'Goldflame' showcases vibrant pink flower clusters that burst with color and energy. The leaves transition from lush green to brilliant orange, adorning the branches in a mesmerizing display of nature's artistry.
‘Goldflame’ is an excellent choice for hotter regions and looks great in border and foundation gardens.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea x bumalda ‘Goldflame’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun to partial shade 
height height 3-4 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 4-9

‘Goldflame’ produces bright pinkish-red panicles of flowers in the summertime. The new foliage will emerge in a bright shade of coppery orange before fading to a punchy lime green. In the fall, the foliage will revert to its orange shade for a blast of autumnal color. 

‘Goldflame’ is heat-tolerant and is a great option for warmer climates. Add this spirea to a border garden or foundation garden for three-season color. 

Spiraea x bumalda ‘Limemound’ 

A close-up of Spiraea x bumalda 'Limemound' reveals charming light purple clusters of flowers. These blooms contrast beautifully with the backdrop of lush green leaves, creating a picturesque and harmonious scene in any garden setting.
When considering additions to your perennial beds, ‘Limemound’ is an excellent choice.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea x bumalda ‘Monhub’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 2-3 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-9

The name for this variety of spirea comes from the color of the foliage. Rather than the classic green, the foliage on the ‘Limemound’ is a yellowish green.

In the fall, the red stems are accented by beautiful orange foliage. The flowers of ‘Limemound’ are pink and bloom in the summertime. 

Add ‘Limemound’ to your perennial beds. This spirea will max out at 3 feet tall and about 4 feet wide

Spiraea x cinerea ‘Grefsheim’

A close-up of Spiraea x cinerea 'Grefsheim' flowers highlights their delicate beauty, with clusters of blossoms sporting sunny yellow centers. These clusters come together to create a cheerful and inviting garden display.
You can use garland spirea for foundation planting or as a striking hedge.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea x cinerea ‘Grefsheim’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun 
height height 5-6 feet 
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-7

The ‘Grefsheim’ or garland spirea is noted for its beautiful early-blooming flowers. A recipient of the Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society, this would make an elegant selection for any garden. 

Growing up to 6 feet, this spirea is still considered compact. The branches are arching and very graceful. In the spring, white flowers will line the arching branches. The foliage is small yet dense and stays close to the base of the plant. 

Use this spirea as a foundation planting or as a stunning hedge. If you want to neaten up the arching branches, trim them up after blooming has finished. 

Spiraea x vanhouttei ‘Pink Ice’ 

A close-up of Spiraea x vanhouttei 'Pink Ice' plants unveils their grace and charm. Pink flowers nestled amidst brown branches create a stunning contrast. The green leaves add a touch of vibrancy and life to the overall composition.
‘Pink Ice’ is a lovely alternative to traditional spirea for those who prefer a more delicate look.
botanical-name botanical name Spiraea x vanhouttei ‘Pink Ice’
sun-requirements sun requirements Full sun
height height 3-4 feet
hardiness-zones hardiness zones 3-9

If you love spirea but are seeking something with a softer, more delicate appearance, ‘Pink Ice’ is a great variety for your gardens

The foliage of this spirea is beautifully variegated with white and pink edges and tips to the leaves. You may notice the variegation fading to green throughout the summer.  In early summer, clusters of small white flowers will bloom on the tips of the stems. 

Plant ‘Pink Ice’ as a short hedge along a walkway, foundation gardens, or perennial beds. If you need to prune this smaller spirea, do so right after flowering ends.

Final Thoughts

Spirea is an easy-to-grow shrub that can add beauty to any garden in zones 4-8. These shrubs are tolerant of many different soil types as well as many different climates. With so many different varieties to choose from, you should focus on colors that you want in your garden, as well as plants that are the right size for the space you are looking to fill. If you have not added spirea to your garden yet, here is your chance!

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