Spiraea japonica Goldflame

Spiraea japonica Goldflame

Why Buy Me?

• Foliage changes colour through seasons
• Clusters of tiny flowers
• likes most conditions

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to partial shade. Best foliage colour and flowering occur in full sun, but it can tolerate light shade, though the growth may be less vigorous and the colour less vibrant.

Soil:
Well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Tolerates a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH but is adaptable to various conditions.

Exposure:
Thrives in a sheltered or exposed position. Tolerates urban environments and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Protect from strong, cold winds that can damage foliage.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry spells, particularly in the first few years after planting.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring or early autumn when temperatures are mild and the soil is moist.

Spacing:
Space 90–120 cm (3–4 feet) apart to allow for the bushy, spreading growth habit.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly, particularly during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and flowering.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch annually with organic material like compost or bark to retain moisture and prevent weeds. Prune in early spring, before new growth starts, cutting back to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged wood. Can be pruned more heavily for a compact form or lightly for a looser structure.

Propagation:
Propagate by softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Can also be propagated by semi-ripe cuttings in mid-summer or by dividing older plants in early spring.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Bright golden-yellow foliage emerges, gradually turning shades of orange and red as it matures. Small, pink flower clusters begin to appear in late spring to early summer.

Summer:
Foliage deepens to a more bronze-yellow colour, and the plant blooms profusely with clusters of bright pink flowers that attract pollinators.

Autumn:
Foliage shifts to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, providing a stunning fall display. The plant remains attractive well into autumn before shedding leaves.

Winter:
Deciduous. The plant drops its leaves in winter, but the twiggy structure can offer a light framework in the garden.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
The pink flowers attract pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies. While the plant is not typically used for wildlife browsing, it provides shelter and nesting sites for small birds in its branches.

Garden Use:
Great for mixed borders, cottage gardens, and informal hedges. The vibrant foliage and colourful flowers make it ideal as a specimen plant or as part of a shrub border. It can also be used for low-maintenance landscaping or to add seasonal interest to a foundation planting.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other sun-loving plants such as Lavender, Echinacea, Coreopsis, Achillea, Sedum, and Penstemon. Its gold and pink hues contrast nicely with darker foliage, such as Heuchera or Bergenia, and can complement plants with complementary colours.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Spiraea japonica Goldflame .It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.