How to identify Japanese meadowsweet (Spiraea japonica)
Japanese meadowsweet is characterized by its dense, mound-shaped growth habit, reaching typically up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height and spread. The foliage is a lush green, transitioning to bronze with the changing seasons. In late spring to early summer, it boasts clusters of small, vibrant pink flowers that form a striking contrast with the leaves. Japanese meadowsweet has finely-toothed, ovate leaves that add to its ornamental appeal. Its hardiness and vigorous growth can make it a dominant presence in landscapes where it is planted.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Shrub
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Dense mound-shaped growth up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height and spread.
Oval leaves with sharp-toothed margins, transitioning from green to bronze.
Small deep pink flowers in terminal corymbs up to 8 inches (20 cm).
Distinctive elongated follicle fruits, ripening to brown, in small clusters.
Wiry brown stems with thin, hairy branches, around 1/8 inch (0.3 cm) in diameter.
The leaves of japanese meadowsweet are lustrous dark green when mature, measuring 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.6 cm) in length. These oval-shaped leaves have sharply-toothed, serrate to double serrate margins. Young leaves display vibrant shades of pink, red, purple, yellow, or chartreuse. Beneath, the leaves are somewhat glaucous with downy veins, providing a distinctive texture and appearance. The combination of these features makes the leaves easily recognizable.
The flowers of japanese meadowsweet are small, measuring 0.25 to 0.33 inches (6 to 8 mm) in diameter, and are typically deep pink or rose-reddish. They bloom in June and July, emitting a mild fragrance. The inflorescences are terminal flat-topped corymbs, or occasionally found in the uppermost leaf axils. These corymbs can span up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter. Each flower cluster is comprised of numerous tiny flowers, which are borne together, creating a vivid and attractive display.
The stem of japanese meadowsweet is wiry and freely branching, presenting an erect growth habit. It features a round cross-section, with the color varying from brown to reddish-brown. Occasionally, the stems are adorned with fine hairs, adding to their texture. These stems are generally thin, typically measuring around 1/8 inch (0.3 cm) in diameter, and exhibit a slightly rough texture due to the presence of small hairs or ridges. This distinct combination of color, texture, and branching pattern is characteristic of japanese meadowsweet's stem.
The fruit of japanese meadowsweet is a distinctive, dry capsule known as a follicle that ripens to a brown hue. It typically has a firm texture and splits open upon maturity to release seeds. The follicle's shape is elongated, resembling a slender pod, and it measures approximately 1/8 inch (around 3 mm) long. Notably, these fruits are displayed in small clusters that can provide visual interest even after the flowering season. Despite their modest size, the fruits are an integral part of the plant's reproductive cycle.
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Scientific Classification of Japanese meadowsweet
