Ural False Spirea
sorbaria kirilowii
Also known as: ["False Spirea","Ural Sorbaria"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with pinnate leaves and panicles of small white flowers, native to Siberia and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Sorbaria |
| Botanical Name: | Sorbaria kirilowii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden border or mixed shrubbery
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- 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; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacting soil; test pH if growth is poor.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates cold temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C); prefers moderate temperatures in summer.
Protect from frost in early spring; avoid placing near heat sources indoors; monitor for heat stress during summer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize once in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength if needed; stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; softwood cuttings in summer are most successful.
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 vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F / 21–24°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; cut back to a healthy bud or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, remove dead or weak growth, and encourage bushier form.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged branches first; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
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; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback or delayed growth in prolonged cold without protection.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth may slow or stop; young plants or new growth are more susceptible.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in extreme cold; avoid planting in exposed, windy areas.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or scorched leaves; reduced flowering or vigor in intense heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; apply at recommended rate; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage roots.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Sorbaria kirilowii. The plant's irritant properties can cause discomfort but are not usually severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Sorbaria kirilowii may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's irritant compounds can lead to discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSorbaria kirilowii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's toxicity is generally low, but ingestion may lead to discomfort due to its irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sorbaria kirilowii toxic to pets?
A: There is no confirmed information on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How fast does Sorbaria kirilowii grow?
A: It is considered a fast-growing shrub.
Q: Does Sorbaria kirilowii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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