Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' (Firelight Spiraea) — Shrub

Overview

Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' is a shrub in the genus Spiraea, part of the Rosaceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, hedging and mass planting. It is native to Cultivar, derived from Spiraea japonica native to Japan, China and Korea.

About

Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' is a cultivar of Spiraea, a genus of shrubs in the Rosaceae family commonly known as meadowsweets or steeplebushes. This shrub grows to about 1.5 metres tall and thrives in full sun. It prefers moist but well-drained soil and can tolerate sandy, loamy, or clay soil types. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is well-suited to temperate climates and benefits from conditions typical of eastern Asia, where many Spiraea species originate.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Spiraea japonica

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

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Spiraea

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrub
Height: 1.5 m
Suggested uses: Borders, hedging, mass planting
Native to: Cultivar, derived from Spiraea japonica native to Japan, China, Korea

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Spiraea japonica 'Firelight'

Cultivation: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Water regularly during dry periods.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Propagation: Softwood cuttings in early summer

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Spiraea japonica 'Firelight'?

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Water regularly during dry periods.

Where is the best place to plant Spiraea japonica 'Firelight'?

Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' need?

Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Spiraea japonica 'Firelight'?

Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

How big does Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' grow?

Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' reaches a height of 1.5 m.

Is Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' hardy in the UK?

Spiraea japonica 'Firelight' 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 'Firelight'?

Softwood cuttings in early summer.

More in the Spiraea genus

Browse all Spiraea →