Marjorie Channon Spirea
spiraea cantoniensis
Also known as: ["Chinese Meadowsweet","Marjorie Channon Spirea"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its elegant, arching branches and clusters of small, white flowers in spring.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Spiraea |
| Botanical Name: | Spiraea cantoniensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light shaping as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids prolonged frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; fertilize before flowering for best results; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot or garden within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth. Best done after flowering to avoid cutting off next year’s buds.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers for thicker stems, pruning saw for large branches.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Stunted growth, leaf discoloration, and potential dieback in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for protection.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering in prolonged high temperatures.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season fertilization; monitor for nutrient burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth. Apply again after the first bloom flush. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength if used monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpiraea cantoniensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSpiraea cantoniensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSpiraea cantoniensis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Spiraea cantoniensis be watered?
A: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but ensure the soil does not become waterlogged.
Q: Does Spiraea cantoniensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: When is the best time to prune Spiraea cantoniensis?
A: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
