Spiraea japonica 'Firelight'

• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are drawn to the nectar-rich flowers.
• Wildlife Resistant: Some resistance to deer and rabbits.

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall (deciduous).
• Flowering Season: Early summer to mid-summer (June to July).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8

• Pollinator gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Borders and mass plantings
• Low-maintenance landscapes
• Foundation plantings

• Color: Bright red foliage emerges in spring, maturing to green in summer, and transitioning to orange-red in the fall.

• Form: Oval, finely toothed leaves that provide a textured, vibrant look throughout the growing season.

• Fall Interest: Provides stunning fall foliage with shades of red, orange, and gold.

• Color: Light pink to rosy-pink flower clusters.
• Form: Small, flat-topped clusters of tiny flowers (corymbs) bloom at the tips of the branches.
• Bloom Time: Blooms from early to mid-summer, lasting for several weeks.
• Fragrance: Not fragrant, but visually appealing.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are cooler.

• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including clay or sandy soils. Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).

• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface.

• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for full, mature growth and good air circulation.

• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage a second flush of blooms in late summer.
• Method: Remove dead or damaged branches, and shape the plant as needed. Cutting back the shrub after flowering can help maintain a compact form and encourage more vibrant new growth.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, Spiraea 'Firelight' is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers average moisture levels but can tolerate occasional dry spells. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can cause root rot.

• Light Exposure: Thrives in full sun. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended for optimal flowering and vibrant foliage color.

– Not typically harvested for cut flowers, as the blooms are short-stemmed and better appreciated in the landscape

– Can be clipped for small garden bouquets, though vase life is limited

– Deadheading (removing spent flower clusters) after the first bloom can encourage light rebloom and keep the plant tidy

– Prune in early spring to promote vigorous new growth and better flowering the following season

– Foliage is not used ornamentally in arrangements but provides attractive color in the garden from spring through fall

• Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring just before new growth begins.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

• Mulching: Apply a 1-2 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.

• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Spiraea 'Firelight' is drought-tolerant, making it ideal for low-maintenance and water-wise gardens.

• Pests and Diseases: Resistant to most pests and diseases, but proper air circulation and well-drained soil will help prevent any potential fungal issues.

• Pollination Type: Pollinated by bees and butterflies, which are attracted to the nectar-rich flowers.
• Seed Production: While Spiraea 'Firelight' may produce seeds, it is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage and flowers rather than seed production.

• Nepeta (Catmint)
• Lavandula (Lavender)
• Salvia
• Echinacea (Coneflower)