How to Grow Spiraea Goldflame - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2024

Spiraea goldflame is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to 6-9 feet tall and wide. It is noted for its deep pink flowers which appear in flat-topped clusters (corymbs) in late spring to early summer. It typically blooms on old wood, but will also bloom on new wood.

How to Grow Spiraea Goldflame - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

border spiraea
dropwort
hardhack
meadowsweet
queen of the meadow

Basic info

Spiraea goldflame is a deciduous shrub that is native to East Asia.
It is a member of the rose family (Rosaceae) and is closely related to other species in the genus Spiraea, such as Spiraea japonica and Spiraea thunbergii.
Goldflame spiraea grows to a height of 2-3 m (6-8 ft) and has a spreading habit.
The leaves are ovate-shaped, dark green in colour and have serrated margins.
The flowers are borne in clusters of 3-7 and are deep pink in colour with yellow stamens.
Flowering takes place in late spring or early summer.
After flowering, the shrub produces small, red fruits (pomes) which are popular with birds.
Spiraea goldflame is a popular ornamental plant and is often used in shrub borders and as a hedging plant.
It is a relatively easy plant to grow and is tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions.
The shrub is also relatively disease and pest resistant.

Related plant:
Spiraea Grefsheim

Planting Process

For spiraea goldflame, first step is to choose a location that has well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Then, the next step is to dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plants root ball.
After that, place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil, tamping it down as you go.
Next, water the plant deeply to settle the soil.
Once the plant is settled, fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer.
The next step is to prune spiraea goldflame in late winter to early spring to encourage new growth.
To deadhead the plant, simply pinch off the spent flowers.
In the fall, spiraea goldflame may be susceptible to powdery mildew, so be sure to monitor it closely.
If necessary, treat powdery mildew with a fungicide.
Lastly, divide spiraea goldflame every 3-4 years to keep it healthy and vigorous.

Related plant:
Spiraea Magic Carpet

The Soil

About soil condition, Spiraea goldflame is best in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soils. Fertilize in early spring by applying a slow-release fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs. Mulch annually with an organic material such as shredded leaves, pine needles or bark chips to help conserve soil moisture and keep roots cool.

Light requirement

Not too different with other types of spirea, Goldflame prefers full sun to partial shade. It will flower best in full sun, but it can also tolerate some shade. If you live in a hot climate, some afternoon shade will help to prevent the leaves from scorching.

The Temperature

The temperature condition for the spiraea goldflame plant is that it needs to be in an area with full sun and well-drained soil. This plant is not tolerant of any shade. The plant will need to be watered regularly, especially during the hotter months. If the soil is too dry, the plant will start to wilt.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 60-70%. If the humidity drops below 60%, the leaves will start to curl and turn brown. If the humidity is too high (above 70%), the leaves will start to drop off.

Fertilizer Requirement

About fertilizer, this type of plant does best with about 1/4 of a pound of a 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 square feet of garden area. Once established, they are quite drought tolerant, so you shouldn't need to water them excessively. As for the roots, they are very fibrous and spreading, so you'll want to be careful not to plant them too close to sidewalks or other hardscapes.

Plant Pruning

Pruning spiraea goldflame is best done in late winter to early spring. Cut back the previous year's growth by about one-third to one-half its original length. This will encourage new growth and produce more flowers.

Plant Propagation

Propagation for this plant is achieved through softwood cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be 6-8 inches long and taken from the tips of the stems. They should be placed in a moistened propagation mix and kept under high humidity with bottom heat of 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit. Cuttings should be rooted within 4-6 weeks.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the combination of the amount of sunlight and water the plant receives. However, if a spiraea goldflame is grown in an area with high humidity, it can stunt the plant's growth.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, rust, leaf spot, and canker. These can all be controlled with chemicals, but it is best to prevent them in the first place by keeping the plant healthy. Fertilize in early spring and prune out any dead or diseased wood.

Basics of Growing

Remember to plant spiraea goldflame in an area that receives full sun.
This shrub does best in moist, well-drained soil.
Be sure to water spiraea goldflame regularly, especially during periods of drought.
Fertilize the shrub in early spring using a balanced fertilizer.
To promote bushier growth, prune spiraea goldflame in late winter or early spring.
This plant is relatively pest and disease resistant.
However, aphids may occasionally infest the foliage.
To keep your plant looking its best, remove any dead or damaged branches as needed.
In the fall, spiraea goldflame produces clusters of small, yellow flowers.
Enjoy the colorful foliage of this shrub throughout the growing season!