Overview

Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' is a suckering shrub in the genus Sorbaria, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.8 m tall. Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and flower borders and beds. It is native to Siberia, Russian Far East, China, Korea and Japan.

About

Sorbaria sorbifolia, the false spiraea, is a species of flowering plant in the family Rosaceae. The common name is also spelled false spirea.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Sorbaria sorbifolia

About the genus

Sorbaria is a genus of around four species of flowering plants belonging to the family Rosaceae.

Wikipedia contributors, "Sorbaria", CC BY-SA 4.0Sorbaria

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Sorbaria

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Shrub
Habit
Suckering
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.8 m
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds
Native to
Siberia, Russian Far East, China, Korea, Japan

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem'

Propagation
Sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn, Semi-ripe cuttings, Removal of rooted suckers
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem'?

Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' need?

Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' grow?

Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' reaches a height of 1.8 m.

Is Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' hardy in the UK?

Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem'?

Sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn, Semi-ripe cuttings, Removal of rooted suckers.

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