Science · High-Value Shrubs
Meadowsweet (Spiraea)
This catalog specifies woody Spiraea, not herbaceous Filipendula ulmaria also called meadowsweet. Species range from moist-site natives to ornamental hybrids.
Spiraea spp. and cultivars · Deciduous shrub; genus-level label
Profile
- Light
- Usually full sun for best bloom
- Pruning
- Spring-blooming old-wood types: after flowering; summer new-wood types: late winter or early spring
- Ecology
- Native S. alba and S. tomentosa have different habitat needs from Asian ornamentals
- Selection
- S. japonica is invasive in some regions; check local guidance
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; depends on soil texture
- Salinity tolerance
- Not reliably characterized for this catalog label; avoid saline irrigation and diagnose with soil/water testing.
- Drought tolerance
- Species-dependent; wetland natives should not be treated like drought-tolerant ornamental hybrids.
Optimal root measurement depth
6–12 in
Typical feeder-root zone for established landscape shrubs. Typical guidance; confirm with a soil probe on site.
Maintain moisture appropriate to the identified species; use well-drained amended soil for most ornamental selections and avoid repeated severe drying.
Problems to watch
- Aphids
- Powdery mildew
- Fire blight or leaf spots
Stress signs
- Curled sticky shoots
- White powder on leaves
- Blackened shoot tips or spotted foliage
Where you'll find it
- Flowering mixed border
- Native moist-meadow planting when species appropriate
Further reading
More high-value shrubs
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.