Bridalwreath Spirea
Spiraea prunifolia
A deciduous shrub known for its graceful, arching branches and profuse clusters of small, white, double flowers that appear in early spring before or with the new leaves.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade; prefers 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day for maximum bloom density.
- Water
- Moderate; water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Mature plants are somewhat drought-tolerant but bloom better with consistent moisture.
- Growth
- Deciduous perennial shrub with an upright, arching habit. Typically grows 4-8 feet tall and wide.
Care instructions
Plant in full sun for best flowering and keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained. Prune immediately after flowering to shape and encourage new growth for next year's blooms. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; prefers 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day for maximum bloom density.
Watering
Moderate; water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Mature plants are somewhat drought-tolerant but bloom better with consistent moisture.
Soil
Adaptable to many soil types but prefers moist, well-draining loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Hardiness zone
5 to 8
Growth habit
Deciduous perennial shrub with an upright, arching habit. Typically grows 4-8 feet tall and wide.
Bloom season
Early to mid-spring; features small (1/3 inch) white flowers in corymbs.
Propagation
Easily propagated through softwood cuttings in summer or by dividing root suckers in late autumn or early spring.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to aphids, leaf rollers, and scale. Diseases include powdery mildew and fire blight if air circulation is poor.
Similar species
Spiraea x vanhouttei (Vanhoutte Spirea) has similar white flowers but typically has a more fountain-like shape and different leaf margins.