Japanese meadowsweet - Spiraea japonica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Japanese meadowsweet

Japanese meadowsweet is considered by many to be an invasive species due to its ability to spread rapidly, creating a dense thicket or hedge. The species traces its roots to Japan, Korea, and China and was introduced in other areas because of its attractive flowers. Use caution when planting to make sure that this shrub can be managed appropriately.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese meadowsweet (Spiraea japonica)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

1 m to 1.5 m

Plant Height

1.5 m to 2 m

Spread

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

4 mm to 7 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Pink, White, Red

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese meadowsweet

Distribution of Japanese meadowsweet

Distribution Map

Japanese meadowsweet comes from the wetlands, forest edges, and meadows of East Asia. It was exported around the world as a garden ornamental, and has escaped to colonize wild areas in parts of eastern North America, Europe, and others. It is listed as invasive in the eastern United States.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Mountains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Japanese meadowsweet is an ornamental plant that easily grows as a flowering hedge. It is versatile and can be planted as a border, foundation plant, and for erosion control in banks and slopes. It is well suited to cottage gardens and prized for its heat and drought tolerance. There are a range of plants that do well when planted near the japanese meadowsweet, including Japanese barberry, Obsidian coral bells, Lucifer montbretia, and Clematis.

Symbolism

Great effort, prosperity

Interesting Facts

Japanese meadowsweet is very cold resistant and drought-resistant. It will grow new branches and leaves after pruning. Its effort and tenacity keeps its beautiful flowers going on forever.

Name Story

Japanese meadowsweet: It is often called Japanese meadowsweet where "meadowsweet" means corruption of mead sweet because it emanates a very strong sweet scent and it is native to Japan.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese meadowsweet, including the following common varieties :

Japanese meadowsweet 'Shirobana'Japanese meadowsweet 'Anthony Waterer'Japanese meadowsweet 'Gold Mound'Japanese meadowsweet 'Firelight'

Quickly Identify Japanese meadowsweet

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.

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Care Guide for Japanese meadowsweet

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Japanese meadowsweet is native to areas with moderate moisture and prefers consistent, but not excessive, watering. Water every 1-2 weeks to keep the soil moist yet well-draining. Thriving outdoors, japanese meadowsweet needs enriched soil during its active growing season linked to water availability.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, japanese meadowsweet should be fertilized with balanced nutrition fertilizers in spring before new growth. Use a slow-release or organic blend recommended for flowering shrubs. Apply annually per package guidelines, and water after fertilizing to ensure nutrient distribution, adjusting as needed for plant maturity and seasons.

Pruning: Japanese meadowsweet showcases dense flower clusters and appealing foliage, ideal for gardens. Key pruning includes removing dead wood and shaping in late spring after blooming. Regular pruning promotes healthier growth and enhanced flowering, while using clean tools is crucial to avoid disease.

Propagation: Japanese meadowsweet is a deciduous shrub from the Rosaceae family, renowned for its pink flowers. Propagate via 6-inch softwood cuttings taken in late spring, using rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining soil, keep moist, and mist regularly for humidity. With care, new plants will flourish.

Repotting: Repot japanese meadowsweet in early spring, every 2-3 years, using a slightly larger container. Post-repotting, position japanese meadowsweet in bright, indirect light, ensuring thorough watering without waterlogging. Good drainage and light fertilization are essential for japanese meadowsweet's recovery and vibrant foliage.

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Images of Japanese meadowsweet

Distribution of Japanese meadowsweet

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Japanese meadowsweet

Care Guide for Japanese meadowsweet

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