Spiraea alba – Meadowsweet

General Information: Pollinators and flower enthusiasts love the delicate scent and white tufts of Meadowsweet. This small multi-stemmed native shrub is often much more compact than the non-native ornamental Spiraea, but is overwhelmingly preferred by wildlife. The attractive flower clusters, which may be white, pink, or a combination of both, bloom from June to August and persist for up to 2 months. Once the blooms have passed, they are replaced by a cluster of brown seeds which remain throughout the winter. This plant has some appeal during Spring and Fall as well. Meadowsweet is one of the first plants to leaf out in spring. In fall, the leaves develop a golden coloration. Edible plant enthusiasts may find this species interesting, as the leaves are said to be a nearly exact substitute for Green Tea minus the caffeine. This shrub’s naturally compact stature creates an aesthetically pleasing and pollinator-friendly environment in tight spaces. Meadowsweet is also a host plant for the Spring Azure Butterfly. These plants tastefully accent any nearby plantings or structures with their pleasant charm.

Cultivation Details: This plant is a fast-growing clumper, forming a multi-stemmed shrub via suckers while immature and remaining compact once a mature height is reached. In the Northeast, this species usually grows to 3 feet, however they are reported to grow taller in warmer climates. Specimens up to 8 feet tall have been recorded! Meadowsweet is naturally found in wet fields and embankments and is particularly suitable for areas that receive plenty of moisture. Ordinary garden conditions are also suitable, particularly well-mulched beds where other Spiraea species would be planted. Consider planting Meadowsweet along borders, walkways, or foundations, near downspouts, in pollinator gardens, as a replacement for non-native species, in rain gardens, to stabilize slopes, or as a specimen plant. This species may also be suitable for Bonsai cultivation. These plants readily self-seed on bare soil. If self-seeding is not desirable, the flowers may be deadheaded when they start to wilt. Meadowsweet blooms are well suited for cut flower arrangements.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist to wet, well-drained soils. Tolerates most soil types. Suitable for mildly acidic, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils.