Spirea alba

Meadowsweet is a delicate shrub species with white fuzzy spires of flowers, blooming between July and September, that will be buzzing with pollinators. While technically classified as a shrub, this plant has fine, upright stems, and could be mistaken for a wildflower. At a height of around 4 feet, this is a manageable plant and would make a lovely alternative for the non-native Japanese Spiraea, which is often used in traditional landscaping. The pink Steeplebush (Spiraea tomentosa) is another great native option for home landscaping.

Spiraea alba is native to the Midwest, as well as most of Canada and the Northeastern US. A favorite of many pollinators, including several types of bees, it also serves as food and host plant for countless other insects. Ruffed Grouse and Greater Prairie Chickens are known to use this plant for food and other birds such as Red-Winged Blackbirds and Indigo Buntings use this species for nesting.

Height: 3.00 to 4.00 feet

Spread: 3.00 to 4.00 feet

Bloom Time: June to August

Bloom Description: White

Sun: Full sun to part shade

Water: Medium to wet

Maintenance: Low

Suggested Use: Hedge, Rain Garden

Flower: Showy, Good Cut

Attracts: Butterflies

Tolerate: Deer, Wet Soil