Spiraea alba

Spiraea alba, commonly known as meadowsweet or white meadowsweet, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. Native to North America, it thrives in wetlands, swamps, and along stream banks. Typically, the plant grows to a height of 1 to 2 meters and exhibits a spreading habit with arching branches. The leaves of Spiraea alba are alternate and simple with toothed margins. They are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the underside. The plant produces small white or pinkish flowers in dense clusters from late spring to mid-summer. Spiraea alba is an important medicinal plant that has been used for centuries by Native Americans for its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains salicylic acid, which is similar to aspirin and can serve as a natural pain reliever. The shrub also provides essential habitat for wildlife. Birds feed on its seeds, while insects, such as bees, are attracted to its nectar-rich flowers. Overall, Spiraea alba is an attractive native shrub that adds aesthetic value to gardens and serves important ecological functions in wetland habitats.

Characteristics

Plant Type

Shrub

Life Cycle

Perennial

Genus

Spiraea

Family

Rosaceae

Hardiness Zone

3-9

Mature Height

2.44 m

Mature Spread

0.91 m to 1.22 m

Leaf Color

Green, Gold, Yellow

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

White

Flower Size

0.25 cm to 0.76 cm

Bloom Time

Early summer, Mid summer

Planting Time

Autumn

Harvest Time

Mid summer

Tags (7)

Common Names (10)