Douglas Spirea (Spiraea douglasii)

Douglas Spirea

Spiraea douglasii

Feathery pink blooms bring soft summer charm to wet meadows. Deciduous flowering shrub; common name: hardhack.

Full sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes the most abundant flowering
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist; tolerates seasonal flooding and wet soil conditions
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Temperature Cold-hardy to -30°C; withstands winter frost; avoid prolonged extreme heat above 32°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Simple lanceolate leaves with serrated margins; bright green foliage turns bronze in fall
  • Flower: Dense plume-like panicles of tiny fragrant pink flowers
  • Stem: Slender reddish-brown woody stems with upright growth form
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; water deeply during extended dry spells

Fertilization

Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Avoid heavy nitrogen feeds to prevent excessive leaf growth over flowering

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solid debris to avoid pest infestations
Pruning
  • Prune immediately after flowering to maintain compact shape and encourage new growth
  • Remove dead or damaged wood in late winter before new growth emerges
  • Thin overcrowded branches to improve airflow and light penetration
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental shrub for rain gardens, hedges, and wildlife habitats; attracts bees and butterflies