How to Grow Reeves Spirea - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2025

Reeves spirea is a deciduous shrub that is native to china. it grows to be about 3-4 feet tall and has pale pink flowers that bloom in the spring. the reeves spirea is a popular plant for gardeners because it is easy to care for and is drought tolerant.

How to Grow Reeves Spirea - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

Bridalwreath spirea
Dropmore spirea
Grahamii spirea
Meadowsweet
Vanhouttei spirea

Good to Know

Reeves spirea is a deciduous shrub that is native to parts of Asia.
It typically grows to 6-10 feet tall and has arching branches with small, oval-shaped leaves.
The shrub produces clusters of white or pink flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, black fruit.
Reeves spirea is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
It is relatively easy to care for and is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions.
Reeves spirea can be propagated from seed, cuttings, or division.
The shrub is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests, including powdery mildew, rust, aphids, and scale.
Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the shrub's shape and prevent it from becoming overgrown.
Reeves spirea is typically hardy in zones 5-
The name "spirea" is derived from the Greek word for "wreath" in reference to the shrub's use in making floral wreaths.

How to Grow

For reeves spirea, first step is to find a location where the plant will receive full sun.
Then, prepare the soil by loosening it with a shovel and removing any weeds.
Next, spread a layer of compost over the planting area.
To plant, dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
Set the plant in the hole and refill with soil, tamping it down lightly as you go.
Water the plant deeply immediately after planting.
Once the plant is established, water it once a week during dry periods.
Fertilize the plant in early spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to shape it and encourage new growth.
Finally, enjoy the beauty of your reeves spirea throughout the growing season!

Related plant:
Skimmia Reevesiana

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, Reeves spirea (Spirea x vanhouttei 'Reeves') prefer well-drained soils in full sun to part shade, but they are somewhat tolerant of poor soils and full shade. They are also tolerant of clay soils. Avoid wet, poorly drained soils.

Light condition

Similar to other spireas, the Reeves spirea prefers full sun to partial shade, although it will tolerate more shade than other members of the genus. It is a fairly drought-tolerant plant once established, although it will perform best with regular watering.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is ideal for Reeves spirea is anything above freezing. This plant is native to East Asia and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. When grown in North America, it is best to plant Reeves spirea in the spring after the last frost date. This shrub can tolerate full sun to partial shade and does not require much water to thrive.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40-50%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.

Fertilizing

Discussing fertilizer, this family of plant can be a challenge to find the right fertilizer. A good rule of thumb is to use a fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. You should always follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging because every fertilizer is different. You should also be aware of over-fertilizing because it can damage the roots and cause the plant to become sick.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of keeping your Reeves spirea healthy and looking its best. Pruning in late winter or early spring will help encourage new growth and prevent the plant from getting too big. You can also prune to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches.

The Propagation

Propagation is best done in the spring, by taking softwood or semi-ripe cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from new growth, and should be around 5-8 inches long. The cuttings should be placed in a deep pot or tray, and filled with a well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a warm, sunny spot, and keep the soil moist. Cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is considered to be slow to medium. However, under the ideal conditions, they can grow quite rapidly. They prefer full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soils. Once they are established, they are relatively drought-tolerant.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, mealybugs, and scale. These pests can be controlled with a number of different methods, including insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil. However, it is always best to start with the least toxic option and only use more toxic methods as a last resort.

Tips on Growing

If you are growing Reeves spirea in containers, make sure to use a well-draining potting mix.
Reeves spirea prefers full sun to partial shade, so make sure to place it in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Water your Reeves spirea regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer every month during the growing season.
To encourage bushy growth, pinch back the tips of the stems in early summer.
To produce more flowers, cut back the plant by about one-third in late fall or early spring.
If you live in a cold climate, you will need to protect your Reeves spirea from frost damage in winter. Place a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the roots.
Reeves spirea is