Spiraea tomentosa

Hardbark Spirea, Steeplebush, Hardhack, Meadowsweet
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size of 3-6' tall. Very short-lived.

Native Range

Introduced 1738; , Nova Scotia to Georgia, west to Kansas.

Flower and Fruit Details

Flower colors range from deep rose to rose-purple, in 3-8" long clusters, opening top to bottom, lingering into fall, attracting butterflies. Fruits are small, dry, felt-like capsules, born in terminal clusters.

Culture and Care

Requires moist soil. Found along roadsides and in fields. Zones 4-8.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA

The following taxa are (or were) represented in the collections at Boone County Arboretum. Additional taxa may be available in the trade that are not included here.

  • Spiraea tomentosa // Hardbark Spirea, Steeplebush, Hardhack, Meadowsweet ("straight species")
    Shrub.
    -- not currently in our collection --