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Spiraea japonica 'Alpina’ (Japanese spirea)

Spiraea japonica 'Alpina’ Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Spiraea japonica 'Alpina’ spy-REE-ah jah-PON-ih-kah Common Name: Japanese spirea Genus: Spiraea
This low-growing, clump-forming shrub has a spreading habit, reaching 10 inches tall. Slender branches spread across the ground. Foliage is light blue-green to 1 inch long. In late June, this plant bears clusters of pink flowers; bloom continues into September if deadheaded.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Makes a good front-of-the-border or edge-of-the-woods garden plant.
 Care: Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil and full sun.
 Propagation: Take greenwood cuttings in summer.
 Problems: Dieback, fireblight, powdery mildew, and Cylindrocladium leaf spot can affect it. Weevils, scale insects, and aphids.
Height 6 in. to 12 in.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Spreads
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Medium Moisture
Characteristics Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Summer
Flower Color Pink Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers
Style Rock Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Shrubs

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