Species false spiraea
white flowers with white stamens, cream center, dark-green leaves and light-green stems

false spiraea

Sorbaria sorbifolia

False Spiraea (Sorbaria sorbifolia) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern Asia. It is shade tolerant and has mid-green compound leaves which hold a fern-like appearance. In cooler climates it forms wide mounds. In warmer areas left unpruned it can reach up to 8 feet in height. Its pinkish white flowers form large plumes of fragrant blooms from summer to autumn. The blooms are attractive to birds and butterflies and the fruits are edible. False Spiraea is low maintenance and can be used as a border, hedge or specimen plant. It requires minimal pruning and is drought tolerant once established.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Well-drained

Fruits:

red,brown Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,white

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

False spiraea, also known as False Spirea or FalseGoat's Beard, should be watered at least once a week during the growing season (April – October). Aim to keep the soil around the plant evenly moist, but not soggy. Water around the base of the plant, avoiding the foliage if possible. As plants are drought tolerant, if the soil appears to be drying out, water more frequently. During the winter, water less frequently, about every 2 to 3 weeks; the amount of water will depend on the amount of precipitation.

sunlight

False spiraea (Sorbaria sorbifolia) is an upright shrub that prefers partial to full sun exposure. During the spring and summer months, false spiraea should receive 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Once the cooler fall and winter months arrive, the shrub should receive 2 to 4 hours of direct sunlight each day. It should also be kept in an area with bright indirect light for the remainder of the day. In addition, during the winter, extra protection should be provided from wind and extreme cold temperatures.

pruning

False spiraea (Sorbaria sorbifolia) should be pruned when growth begins in the spring. Pruning should focus on removing any dead or diseased branches and limbs, as well as any overly-long branches. Prune the false spiraea to the desired size and shape, making sure not to prune more than 1/3 of the total plant. Be sure to make your cuts at an angle, slightly outside of the bud so as to not damage it. Pruning too much or too often may reduce flowering.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

False spiraea typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

False spiraea typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Sorbaria sorbifolia typically begins in July and continues through August.

Hardiness Map