Spiraea or Vanhouttei

Culture

Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates light shade, a wide range of soils and some drought. Prune as needed immediately after flowering.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Vanhoutte spirea (also commonly called bridalwreath) is a vase-shaped, deciduous shrub with branching that arches gracefully toward the ground. It is a hybrid cross between S. trilobata x S. cantoniensis. It typically grows 5-8’ tall with a spread to 7-10’ wide. It is particularly noted for its showy spring bloom. Tiny white flowers (each to 1/3” diameter) appear in late April to May in umbellate clusters (to 2” wide) that profusely cover the leafy branching. Small, rhombic to obovate, coarsely serrate, dark blue-green leaves (to 1.5” long) may have or at least suggest 3-5 lobes. Fall color is usually undistinguished, but attractive purplish hues may sometimes develop. Specific epithet honors Belgian nurseryman, L. B. Van Houtte (1810-1876).

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Susceptible to many of the diseases and insects that attack other rose family members, including leaf spot, fire blight, powdery mildew, root rot, aphids, leaf roller and scale.

Garden Uses

Hedges, foundations, borders, sunny woodland margins. Excellent flowering specimen/accent.