Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' (Japanese Meadowsweet) — Bushy, Suckering

Overview

Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' is a bushy, suckering shrubs in the genus Spiraea, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include mixed borders, shrub borders, cottage gardens, informal gardens, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds. It is native to Japan.

About

Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' is a deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub that suckers to form a rounded clump, growing to about 1.5 m. It bears clusters of flowers from May to July. The cultivar prefers full sun and tolerates a wide range of soils while needing moist but well-drained conditions. It suits exposed as well as sheltered spots and is fully hardy in UK conditions (H7).

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 japonica 'Dark Magic' is a deciduous, suckering shrub reaching roughly 1.5 m. Flowering runs from May to July, after which the overall shape is maintained by its multi-stemmed growth. The plant's habit means it can form a small clump if given room to spread. Plant in a sunny position; it accepts sandy, loamy or clay soils and will tolerate acid, neutral or alkaline pH provided the soil remains moist but well-drained. It stands up to both sheltered and more exposed aspects, and its hardiness rating of H7 indicates it is fully hardy through typical UK winters (USDA zones 4–8 for wider reference). Allow good air movement around plants in tighter borders to reduce the chance of congestion. Use Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' in mixed and shrub borders, cottage and informal gardens, wildlife-friendly beds, and flower borders. Its suckering habit means it can help fill ground over time, so allow space between specimens or control spread with a barrier or selective removal of errant shoots. Positioning at the front to mid-border takes advantage of its flowering period and formative habit.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Spiraea

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

Plant details

Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrubs
Habit: Bushy, Suckering
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 1.5 m
Suggested uses: Mixed borders, Shrub borders, Cottage gardens, Informal gardens, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Native to: Japan

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic'

Cultivation: Prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil; tolerates a wide range of soil types and pH; suitable for exposed and sheltered locations; hardy to UK zone H7.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage vigorous growth; remove old wood to promote flowering.
Propagation: Softwood cuttings, Semi-ripe cuttings, Hardwood cuttings, Seed
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic'?

Prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil; tolerates a wide range of soil types and pH; suitable for exposed and sheltered locations; hardy to UK zone H7.

Where is the best place to plant Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic'?

Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' need?

Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic'?

Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage vigorous growth; remove old wood to promote flowering.

How big does Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' grow?

Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' reaches a height of 1.5 m.

Is Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' hardy in the UK?

Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Spiraea japonica 'Dark Magic'?

Softwood cuttings, Semi-ripe cuttings, Hardwood cuttings, Seed.

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