Thunberg Spirea (Spiraea thunbergii)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Shrub

Thunberg Spirea
Spiraea thunbergii

Thunberg Spirea in flower
Thunberg Spirea in flower
 
Features
Loose clusters of white flowers in early to mid spring; bright green, narrow leaves give the shrub a fine texture in summer; autumn color is yellow-orange, but lasts only a short time. 
 
Culture
Full sun; moist, well-drained soils are best, but tolerates dry sites; tolerates neutral soil pH (highly alkaline soils may lead to chlorosis). 
 
Cultivars
  • 'Fujino Pink'- Soft pink flowers.
  • 'Ogon'- Yellow leaves.
 
 
Mature Height
3-5 Feet
 
Size
Small
 
 
Mature Width
3-5 Feet
 
Mature Form
Rounded to broad rounded  
 
Native To:
China, Japan 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Dry
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
Dry Sites
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Uses
Border
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Orange
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease

Herbicide Injury


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

A number of problems are common on this species, but aphids tend to do the most damage.
 
Additional Notes

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic