About

Holodiscus discolor, creambush or ocean spray, is a strong-growing deciduous shrub to 4 m with oval, lobed, grey-green leaves. In midsummer, luxuriant, pendulous plumes of tiny, creamy-white flowers appear, followed by small, white fruits. A beautiful and graceful flowering shrub for a sunny or partly shaded garden.

About the genus

Holodiscus are deciduous shrubs in the rose family (Rosaceae) producing toothed or lobed leaves and large, pendant, feathery panicles of tiny, creamy-white flowers in summer. Hardy and ornamental flowering shrubs for sunny or partly shaded positions.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeGrass Like
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Prairie planting, Cottage and informal garden
Native toN America, N E Asia

Care notes

CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed in situ in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free