Rock Spirea
spiraea chamaedryfolia
Also known as: ["Dwarf Spirea","Rock Spiraea"]
Overview
A low-growing deciduous shrub with delicate, fern-like foliage and clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers in late spring to early summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Spiraea |
| Botanical Name: | Spiraea chamaedryfolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or woodland edges
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- 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, immediately after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if 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 full sun if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is best; use sheer curtains for indoor protection; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold winters but benefits from protection in extreme heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent soil moisture.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilizing; stop feeding in fall to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem 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.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is mature but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; cut back to a healthy bud or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth. Best done after flowering to avoid cutting off buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
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; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
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; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid wetting foliage. Early morning watering is ideal to reduce evaporation.
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 for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf scorch, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; wilting or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or dieback, especially in poorly drained soil. Frost can damage tender new growth.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in extreme cold; ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering. Plants may become stressed and vulnerable to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid feed; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season, avoiding winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpiraea chamaedryfolia is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSpiraea chamaedryfolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSpiraea chamaedryfolia 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: Does Spiraea chamaedryfolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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