About
Sorbaria sorbifolia, false spirea, is a small to medium-sized, deciduous, suckering shrub to 3 m producing upright stems, pinnate leaves divided into 13�25 sharply toothed, dark-green leaflets and narrow, stiffly erect panicles of small, creamy-white flowers in summer. A rewarding and ornamental shrub for a sunny or semi-shaded, moist border.
About the genus
Sorbaria are large, deciduous, suckering shrubs producing attractive pinnate leaves and large, terminal panicles of small, white, spiraea-like flowers in summer. Rewarding and ornamental shrubs for a sunny or semi-shaded, moist border.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSuckering, Bushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toN Asia
Care notes
CultivationBest grown in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Remove suckers to prevent plants spreading widely and forming thickets. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well
PruningPruning group 6. Remove unwanted suckers in winter
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings or by seed. Rooted suckers can be transplanted in winter or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free