A Few Facts About The Spirea Arguta
Spirea Arguta is one member of the spirea family, consisting of a variety of shrubs, mostly characterized by a rounded shape, and drooping, flower-ladened branches. Though found primarily in Europe and the United Kingdom, spirea Arguta can also be located in some nurseries in the United States, and being a hardy shrub, can grow in most parts of the country and in Canada as well.
A Versatile Shrub - Like many other members of the spirea family, spirea Arguta is a multi-stemmed plant which can be planted as a specimen shrub, best when in a corner location, or as an attractive hedge. Spirea Arguta is a fast growing plant and once flowering is done, may need to be pruned back, as the branches will continue to grow, upwards and outwards. These shrubs respond quite well to pruning, and can be pruned back by about a third, or even more, at the end of the growing season if desired. One can let a shrub grow as large as one wishes of course, but occasional pruning often leads to a more attractive plant. One can also, through selective pruning, use spirea Arguta as a very attractive border plant. The plant, if not pruned, may reach up to 6 feet in height, or even higher, but can be keep at a height of 18" to 2' for border uses if desired.
Spirea Arguta can be grown in containers, though needs to be pruned back fairly regularly if this is the case, but when grown in a large container on or near a patio, the shrub can be quite spectacular when in bloom, and most attractive at other times. When grown at a reasonable distance from the house, this shrub is very apt to attract wildlife, and songbirds will often nest among its thick system of branches. The spirea also attracts bees and hummingbirds when in blossom.
Spirea Arguta also goes buy the name "Bridal Wreath". A glance at the flowering branches will bear this out. It is also called “Foam of May”, which in some respects seems to be an even more appropriate title.
Culture - While spirea Arguta will respond very well to good care, it is a very tough plant, able to withstand harsh winters and dry periods during the summer, although regular watering will yield the most attractive results. The plant in general requires only minimum maintenance however, making it a nice choice for a hedge, if a deciduous hedge is acceptable.
Like most spirea varieties, spirea Arguta is generally pest and disease free. It is a long-lived plant, typically reaching an age of 20 years and often more. This shrub is not terribly fussy about the soil it’s planted in, and although fairly drought tolerant, does prefer soil that is moist though well drained. It will be at its best and most attractive when planted in full sun, but will grow quite well in partial shade, and whether it is planted in an exposed location or a sheltered location doesn't seem to matter. Although the plant will usually survive sub-zero temperatures, it's never a bad idea to mulch it with straw or dry leaves in areas where winters are especially severe.
Feed And Water - The best way to water spirea Arguta is to give at a good soaking every couple of weeks, a couple of buckets of water each time being ideal, instead of giving it a light watering every day. Container plants will usually have to be watered slightly more often, especially during hot weather. A spring feeding with a fertilizer high in nitrogen and potassium will benefit this plant, with a slow release fertilizer being an excellent choice.