Hypericum-leaved Spirea
spiraea hypericifolia
Also known as: ["Hypericum-leaved Spirea"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with delicate, arching branches and small, bright green leaves resembling those of Hypericum. It produces clusters of small, white or pink flowers in late spring to early summer.
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 hypericifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden border or mixed shrubbery, 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: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering in late spring or early summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. For indoor placement, ensure bright indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid frequent shallow watering, and ensure good drainage to prevent 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 compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize once in spring; water before and after application; avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in early summer; layering can also be successful.
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: Early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
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; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; 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 diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution (bleach or alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh soil mix with good drainage; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone to ensure deep saturation. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure and fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback, especially if roots are not protected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water thoroughly after application; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth; avoid high-nitrogen formulas to prevent excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpiraea hypericifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSpiraea hypericifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSpiraea hypericifolia is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Spiraea hypericifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it produces small, attractive flowers that are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How often should Spiraea hypericifolia be watered?
A: It prefers moderate watering, especially during dry periods, but is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Spiraea hypericifolia require pruning?
A: Light pruning after flowering can help maintain its shape and encourage better blooming in the following season.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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