Spiraea hirsuta - (Hemsl.)Schneid.

(Hemsl.)Schneid.

Rosaceae

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Miami University Turrell Herbarium - Vascular Plants (MU-)

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Meise Botanic Garden

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Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Description

Spiraea hirsuta is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Uses

A tea is made from the leaves.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Where It Grows

TEMPERATE ASIA: China (Fujian Sheng, Gansu Sheng, Hebei Sheng, Henan Sheng, Hubei Sheng, Hunan Sheng, Jiangxi Sheng, Shaanxi Sheng, Shandong Sheng, Shanxi Sheng, Sichuan Sheng, Zhejiang Sheng)

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. It is closely related to S. nervosa angustifolia. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Tolerates most soils, but prefers a good loamy soil, abundant moisture and full sunlight. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus.

Propagation

Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame if possible. It is likely to require stratification before it germinates, so stored seed should be sown in a cold frame as early in the year as you receive it. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle, and grow them on in a cold frame for their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a light sandy soil a frame. Cuttings of mature wood of the current seasons growth, 15cm long, October/November in an outdoor frame. Another report says that September is a good time to do this. Division of suckers in early spring. They can be planted out straight into their permanent positions.