About the genus

Spiraea, sometimes spelled spirea in common names, and commonly known as meadowsweets or steeplebushes, is a genus of about 80 to 100 species of shrubs in the family Rosaceae. They are native to the temperate Northern Hemisphere, with the greatest diversity in eastern Asia.

Wikipedia contributors, "Spiraea", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Spiraea

In the garden

Spiraea aruncus is a species within the genus Spiraea and is recorded in family Q46299. Its defining horticultural feature is a clear flowering season from May–July, which provides a predictable mid-season display for temperate borders and mixed plantings. Different cultivars and nursery stock may have specific site preferences and tolerances, so follow the supplier’s label for light, soil and hardiness information. Use the May–July bloom window when arranging companions: pair with plants that flower before or after to extend colour through the season. Timing of any formative pruning should take the flowering period into account so flower buds are not removed. Allow the plant’s May–July flowering to be the central consideration when placing it in the garden; avoid temporary screens or annuals that would obscure the display at that time. For maintenance, delay any substantial cutting until after the full flowering period has finished to retain the season’s blooms.

From the Fenn Plants journal

• Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
• Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
• Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.

More in the Spiraea genus

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  Spiraeaspiraea
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  Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic'Japanese Meadowsweet
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  Spiraea japonica 'Odessa'PBRJapanese Spiraea
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  Spiraea japonica Zen'Spirit Gold ('Minspiz07')Japanese Meadowsweet
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  Spiraea prunifolia f. simplicifloraBridalwreath Spirea
• Spiraea densiflora var. splendensDense-flowered Spiraea
• Spiraea japonica Little Flame ('Minspil04'PBR)Japanese Spiraea