Spiraea japonica Empire™ Northern Lights

• Pollinators: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity and enhancing the ecological value of your garden.
• Wildlife Resistant: Empire™ Northern Lights is deer and rabbit resistant, making it a reliable choice for gardens prone to wildlife activity.

• Blooming Season: Empire™ Northern Lights blooms from late spring to early summer (May to June), adding bright color to the garden.

Accent Plant: Vibrant new foliage and colorful blooms make it a dynamic focal point in garden beds.

Low Borders and Edging: Compact size and rounded form make it ideal for edging pathways or defining planting areas.

Foundation Planting: Adds soft texture and bright color near buildings or patios without overwhelming the space.

Mass Planting: Creates a glowing, cohesive effect when planted in groups or drifts.

Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies with its clusters of summer flowers.

Mixed Shrub Borders: Works well among other ornamental shrubs, adding contrast and seasonal flair.

Small-Space Landscaping: Suitable for tight spaces due to its neat and compact growth habit.

Container Gardening: Offers bright seasonal interest in pots or raised beds with adequate care.

The foliage emerges bright red in spring, then matures to golden-yellow through the summer, creating a striking visual effect. In fall, the leaves may turn a reddish-bronze, extending the seasonal interest of the plant.

The shrub produces small, flat-topped clusters of soft pink flowers that contrast beautifully against its golden foliage. The blooms create a charming, delicate display that is attractive to pollinators.

• Planting Season: Best planted in early spring or fall, though container-grown plants can be transplanted at any time during the growing season with proper watering.
• Planting Depth: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Plant at the same depth as the container, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil but is highly adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It tolerates poor soil conditions but thrives best in slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and mature growth.

Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches. After flowering, deadhead spent blooms to encourage a second flush of flowers and tidy the plant’s appearance. Regular pruning also helps stimulate new, colorful growth.

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, Empire™ Northern Lights is moderately drought-tolerant but will perform best with consistent moisture. Water during dry spells but avoid overwatering.

• Full sun is essential for the best foliage color and flowering performance. For optimal growth and vibrant leaf coloration, plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate partial shade, but foliage color may not be as vibrant.

Seed Harvesting: After the pink flower clusters fade (typically late summer), the plant produces small, dry seed capsules.

• Allow the flower heads to dry naturally on the shrub.
  
• Once the capsules turn brown and brittle, snip them off with clean scissors or pruners.
  
• Gently break open the capsules over a tray or paper to collect the tiny seeds.
  
• Store seeds in a cool, dry place in a labeled envelope or airtight container.
  

Foliage Use:

• The new growth of Empire Northern Lights features colorful red, orange, or yellow foliage which can be lightly clipped in spring or early summer for use in seasonal floral arrangements.
  
• Avoid heavy pruning during peak heat to reduce stress on the plant.
  

Flower Stems:

• While not commonly used in formal bouquets, the airy pink flower clusters can be harvested when in full bloom for casual arrangements.
  
• Cut stems early in the morning for best turgidity, and place them immediately in water.
  

Pruning for Regrowth:

• Lightly deadhead or prune back spent blooms in midsummer to encourage fresh foliage color and potential rebloom.
  
• Heavier pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and promote dense new growth.

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering. Fertilize lightly, especially if the soil is already nutrient-rich.

• Pest & Disease: Empire™ Northern Lights is resistant to most pests and diseases but can occasionally be affected by aphids or spider mites. Monitor regularly and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary. It is generally disease-free, but good air circulation can help prevent powdery mildew.
• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots. Avoid piling mulch directly against the stem to prevent rot.
• Winter Care: Hardy in USDA Zones 4-8. In colder climates, mulch around the base of the plant to protect roots during winter. No special winter care is required in warmer zones.
• Dividing: Division is not necessary for this shrub. However, you can propagate new plants by taking softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.

The flowers of Empire™ Northern Lights attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting natural cross-pollination. While the shrub is self-fertile, having pollinators increases the abundance of flowers.

• Sedum 'Matrona' – adds structure and pink tones that harmonize with spirea blooms.
  
• Heuchera 'Berry Smoothie' – provides colorful foliage contrast and a refined look.
  
• Nepeta 'Walker's Low' – soft blue flowers and trailing habit balance spirea’s bold foliage.
  
• Pennisetum alopecuroides – ornamental grass adds texture and movement.
  
• Coreopsis 'Moonbeam' – soft yellow flowers complement the warm hues in spirea leaves.
  
• Berberis thunbergii 'Rose Glow' – offers dramatic dark foliage that contrasts with spirea’s brightness.
  
• Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' – vertical purple spikes enhance the landscape’s depth and pollinator appeal.
  
  Achillea millefolium 'Paprika' – flat red flower clusters echo spirea’s flower tones and thrive in similar conditions.