Spirea betulifolia is a plant that belongs to the rose family. It is a deciduous shrub that is native to China. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of white flowers. It blooms in the spring and summer.
Related plant:
Spirea Japonica Anthony Waterer
Related plant:
Types Of Spirea
About soil condition, the Spirea betulifolia prefers well-drained soil, and sustained moisture content. This will usually be found in areas near water sources such as creeks or rivers. The Spirea betulifolia also does well in sandy soils.
Similar to other sun-loving shrubs, spirea betulifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. It will tolerate some shade, especially if the soil is kept moist, but it may not flower as heavily. This shrub does best in moist, well-drained soils, but it is quite tolerant of different soil types. It has a moderate growth rate and can reach a height of 6 to 8 feet and a spread of 4 to 6 feet.
The temperature condition that is most conducive to the growth of spirea betulifolia is a temperature that is on the cooler side. This plant does not do well in hot weather and will often wilt in temperatures that are too warm. They need a period of dormancy in order to flower, so a cool winter is necessary. Spirea betulifolia will often stop growing if the temperature gets above 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. If the humidity drops below 30%, the leaves will start to curl and the plant will become dormant. If the humidity rises above 70%, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will become stressed.
Mentioning fertilizer, this plant does best with a light hand. Use a 1/4 cup of 5-10-10 fertilizer for each plant at the beginning of the season, and then once a month through the growing season. You can apply fertilizer using a granular form or a water-soluble form. If using the granular form, work the fertilizer into the top 3 inches of soil and then water thoroughly. If using the water-soluble form, mix the fertilizer with water according to the package directions and apply it to the soil around the base of the plant. Be sure to water the fertilizer into the soil.
Pruning spirea betulifolia is important in order to promote new growth and maintain the plant's shape. Heavy pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Cut back all stems to about 6 inches above the ground. After the plant has flowered, you can lightly prune it to remove any dead or damaged stems.
Propagation of spirea betulifolia is typically done through softwood or semi-ripe cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, vigorous plants and should be about 4-6 inches long. Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle just below anode. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant in a well-drained potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not soggy and place the pot in bright, indirect light. New roots should form within 4-6 weeks. Once the roots are established, transplant to a larger pot or into the garden.
Usually, the plant growth rate in good condition reach up to 60-90 cm a year. However, if the plant experiences any sort of stress, the growth rate will be significantly lower. Additionally, older plants tend to grow more slowly than younger plants.
Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, leaf spots, and rust. These problems can be controlled with fungicides. If the plant is severely infected, it may need to be removed and destroyed.
Source:
Spiraea betulifolia | Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens
Spiraea betulifolia 'Lucida' - University of Florida
Spirea betulifolia | TriCollege Libraries Digital Collections
