Spiraea Flowers

Spiraea Flowers Photos And Facts

Name : Spiraea Flowers
Latin Name : Genus: Spiraea, (Spiraea thunbergii)
Spiraea Description

Spiraea is a genus comprising of about 80-100 species of perennial shrubs in the family Rosaceae, subfamily Spiraeoideae. Spiraea varieties are native to the temperate Northern Hemisphere, with the greatest diversity in eastern Asia. Common names include Spirea and Meadowsweet. The plant derives its name from the Greek word speiraira, which was a plant that the Greeks traditionally used to make garlands. That name, in turn, comes from another Greek word speira, meaning coil, twist or wreath, from which we derive the word "spiral" since the plant material is twisted or "spiraled" around itself in order to make a garland.

Spiraea is a long-lived shrub which adds a fine texture to a landscape. Spirea forms a beautiful mound of gracefully arching stems which get covered with tiny, snow- white flowers in late winter or early spring. In the summer time the pale, almost yellowish green foliage contrasts nicely with that of darker green shrubs. Spiraea blossoms are very small in size, they appear in clusters, covering the entire shrub and remind the beholder of apple blossoms, which also belong to the Rosaceae family.

Spiraea flowers are mostly white in colour but cultivars with pink, purple or even red blossoms are also available.

Spiraea shrubs have attractive foliage with toothed or lobed edges. Spirea flowers range from about a quarter inch across to much wider depending on the variety. These delicate blossoms are perfectly symmetrical having five sepals and five petals. Depending on the variety, Spirea may be single or double-flowering. Spiraeas also show variation in term of habit and the stems can be arching or upright depending on the variety.

Spireas are fairly easy to grow and require very little attention. Spiraeas flower best when grown in full sun and bloom from April to May, adding more beauty and loveliness to the spring landscape. With their dainty, white or pink blossoms, Spiraeas compliment the more colourful, dramatic blossoms that decorate the garden beds during the early months of summer.

Spiraea is highly adaptable as far as growth requirements are concerned and grows well in full sun to partial shade. Spiraea will tolerate a lot of water, but can become somewhat drought tolerant if grown with other plants and also in semi-shade. Spireas can tolerate warm as well as cold climate, the only difference is that the bloom is heaviest in cool climates, where the small, white flowers can cover the entire shrub; whereas, in warm climates, the bloom is less intense, but the flowers last for a longer time.

Spiraea propagates by seeds, layering, sucker division or softwood cuttings rooted under mist in a warm place during the summer, whereas hardwood cuttings can be rooted outdoors in the fall. Spiraeas are easy to transplant and autumn is the best time to divide plants. Spring and fall are both good for setting out new Spiraea plants from seeds.

Spiraea is an excellent garden plant and works wonders in transforming the landscape. Instead of being a focal point, it rather works as a back drop for darker flowers, providing contrast and adding to their beauty and effect. Even when not in bloom, the foliage of Spiraea shrubs adds greenery and interesting texture to the garden.

Spiraea is also popular as a cut flower and works well in any type of flower arrangements. Spireas are used as fillers in an arrangement, adding texture and contrast and enhancing the overall effect of an arrangement, bouquet or table centerpiece. Their attractive foliage can also be employed to add extra interest to floral designs. The vase life of Spiraea varieties can vary with species but they typically last for about five to seven days.

Popular varieties include Spiraea thunbergii; Anthony Waterer with deep pink blossoms; Bridal Veil Spirea has gorgeous double white blossoms and is very early flowering. Thunberg Spirea is another early-flowering white variety.

Spiraea Meaning

The elegant Spiraea or Meadowsweet symbolizes Triumph, Victory, and Conceit.

Spiraea Mythology

Spiraea is too woody to have any culinary importance, but has a long history of medicinal use by Native Americans as an herbal tea. The entire plant contains compounds with similar medicinal properties of aspirin.

Spiraea or Meadowsweet is also effective in treating stomach disorders when taken in minute amounts. The salicylate compounds in Spiraea are a highly effective analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and fever reducer, without the side effects attributed to aspirin. Compounds contained in Spiraea also contain bacteriostatic properties and the tea of this plant was used traditionally by the Blackfeet Indians as an enema and vagina douche to cure infections of the bowels and vaginal area.