Maintenance Landscaping Design

Spirea japonica little princess is a low-growing shrub that is perfect for adding color and interest to any garden. This plant is easy to care for and is very versatile, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners alike. Little princess spirea is a vigorous grower and can reach up to 3 feet tall and wide. It has dark green leaves and delicate pink flowers that bloom in early summer. This plant is tolerant of both full sun and partial shade and does not require much water once it is established.

Popular name

• Japanese spirea
  
• Dwarf spirea
  
• Snowmound spirea
  
• Compact spirea
  
• Butterfly bush

Basic info

• Spirea japonica 'Little Princess' is a deciduous shrub with a rounded habit and graceful cascading branches.
  
• It typically matures to 3-4' tall and as wide, but may reach 6' tall in optimum growing conditions.
  
• 'Little Princess' features tiny, rose-pink flowers borne in profusion in erect, terminal panicles (to 4" long) in late spring.
  
• Flowers are followed by small, oblong, winged fruits (to 1/8" long).
  
• Serrated, ovate to obovate, medium green leaves (to 3" long) turn attractive shades of yellow, orange and red in fall.
  
• Native to Japan, Korea and China.
  
• It was introduced into the U.S. in 189
  
• Genus name comes from the Greek word speira meaning wreath or garland in reference to the showy flower clusters often used in bridal bouquets.
  
• Specific epithet means of Japan.
  
• 'Little Princess' is a Cultivar Group of Spirea japonica that includes the following selections: 'Anthony Waterer', 'Darlac', 'Golden Princess', 'Lena', 'Nihon', 'Shirobana' and 'White Gold'.

Related plant:
Spirea Japonica Anthony Waterer

Growing Steps

1. For spirea japonica little princess, first step is to find a sunny location.
   
2. Spirea japonica little princess prefers well-drained soil.
   
3. Next, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plant's container.
   
4. Spirea japonica little princess should be planted at the same level it was growing in the container.
   
5. Once planted, water your spirea japonica little princess deeply.
   
6. Apply a layer of mulch around the plant, but be sure to keep it away from the stem.
   
7. Spirea japonica little princess should be pruned in late winter to early spring.
   
8. Fertilize your plant in early spring, using a slow-release fertilizer.
   
9. To encourage more blooms, deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season.
   
10. Spirea japonica little princess is generally pest and disease free, but keep an eye out for scale, aphids and powdery mildew.

Related plant:
Grefsheim Spirea

The Soil

About soil condition, the spirea japonica little princess grows best in well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It does not tolerate wet, poorly drained soils and is susceptible to root rot. The plant also does not tolerate drought well.

Light requirement

So, like the other Spirea shrubs, 'Little Princess' prefers full sun to partial sun. It will grow in more shade, but blooming will be reduced in less than full sun. If you live in a hot climate, some afternoon shade will be appreciated. It's a tough shrub and once established, is drought tolerant.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is most ideal for Spirea japonica 'Little Princess' is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this plant can also tolerate temperatures as low as 60 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The best way to ensure that your plant stays within the ideal temperature range is to place it in an area of your home or garden that receives plenty of sunlight during the day.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%-70%. However, the plant can still tolerate lower or higher humidity levels as long as the leaves are not wilting. If the leaves start to wilt, that means the plant is not getting enough water and you should water it more frequently.

Fertilizer Requirement

About fertilizer, this family of plant is not too picky. A little fertilizer can go a long way for these plants. Just make sure to not overdo it, or you could end up with one big mess. In terms of the roots, they are typically pretty shallow. This means that you won't have to dig too deep when you are planting them. Just make sure that the area is well drained and they should do just fine.

About light

Pruning spirea japonica little princess is an important task that should be done regularly to promote healthy growth and prevent the plant from becoming overgrown. It is best to prune in early spring before new growth begins. This will help to ensure that the plant produces strong, healthy new growth. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or damaged branches. This will help to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too top-heavy.

About Propagating

Propagation is best done in spring by taking softwood cuttings. Take cuttings from new growth that is not yet woody. Cuttings should be about 6 inches long and have several leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in moistened potting mix. Place the pot in a warm location out of direct sunlight and keep the potting mix moist. New plants should form within a few weeks.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is about 1 to 2 feet per year. They can live up to 15 years with the right care. Spirea japonica little princess is a deciduous shrub that blooms in the spring. The blooms are white and last for about a month.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These problems are typically not fatal to the plant, but can cause severe leaf damage if left untreated. Treatment options include removing affected leaves, applying fungicide, and increasing air circulation around the plant.

Tips on Growing

• Make sure to plant your spirea japonica little princess in an area that gets full sun.
  
• Choose a well-draining spot for your plant.
  
• Amend the soil with organic matter before planting.
  
• Water your plant regularly, especially during hot weather.
  
• Fertilize your plant every few weeks during the growing season.
  
• Prune your plant in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
  
• Check for pests and diseases regularly and take action if needed.
  
• Deadhead flowers regularly to prolong the blooming season.
  
• Divide your plant every few years to keep it healthy.
  
• Enjoy the beautiful flowers of your spirea japonica little princess all season long!

You May Like

• Spirea thunbergii - Spirea thunbergii is a species of flowering plant in the rose family called the spiraeas.
  
• Spirea japonica - Spirea japonica, Japanese spirea or Japanese meadowsweet, is a species of spirea native to eastern Asia in China, Japan and Korea.
  
• Spirea cantoniensis - Spirea cantoniensis, also called Chinese spiraea or Canton spirea, is a species of Spirea native to central and southern China in the provinces of Guangdong, Guangxi, Sichuan, Yangtze River.
  
• Spirea angustifolia - Spirea angustifolia, commonly known as narrow-leaved spirea, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family found in North America in the Great Plains, Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes region.

Source:
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Spiraea japonica 'Little Princess'
Japanese Spirea (Spiraea japonica)-Hort Answers - University of ...
Spiraea japonica 'Little Princess' habit: UIPLANTS