Species

Spiraea japonicaJapanese Spirea

21 other cultivars

shrub

Golden Princess Spirea

Spiraea japonica 'Golden Princess'

The Story

Plant Bio

Spiraea japonica, native to eastern Asia, is a deciduous shrub characterized by a dense, mounding habit and serrated leaves. The species produces flat-topped clusters of nectar-rich flowers on current-season growth from late spring through summer.

'Golden Princess' is distinguished by its compact dwarf form and vibrant foliage that emerges coppery-bronze in spring before turning bright golden-yellow. In summer, the leaves transition to chartreuse, providing a sharp contrast to the deep pink flower corymbs.

Uses & Benefits:

Offers multi-season color transitions from coppery-bronze spring growth to golden-yellow summer foliage and red-bronze fall tones.

Provides a low-maintenance, compact structural element suitable for erosion control on slopes or as a dense border edging.

Nectar-rich pink flowers support generalist pollinators, including native bees, butterflies, and occasional hummingbirds.

SpeciesSpiraea japonicaJapanese Spirea

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36"

Width

48"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to maximize the intensity of the golden foliage color.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and backfill with native soil, ensuring excellent drainage.
Water deeply at the base to settle the soil, maintaining consistent moisture until the root system is established.
Apply a light layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main stems to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun to prevent the golden foliage from reverting to a dull green. Avoid pruning into old, leafless wood where dormant buds fail to break.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune the shrub back hard in late winter or early spring to shape the mound and stimulate vigorous new growth.
Deadhead spent flower clusters immediately after the primary summer bloom to encourage a secondary flush.
Grow in full sun to maintain the vibrant chartreuse and golden leaf tones.

Don't

Do not apply heavy, high-nitrogen fertilizers, which diminish foliage color and cause weak, leggy growth.
Do not prune into old, leafless wood where new buds cannot break.
Do not plant in poorly drained soils or areas prone to standing water.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Pest Check
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Foundation PlantingMass PlantingBorder EdgingRock Garden

Companion Plants

Salvia nemorosa Nepeta faassenii Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Golden Princess Spirea questions

What zones can Golden Princess Spirea grow in?

Golden Princess Spirea is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Golden Princess Spirea deer resistant?

Yes — Golden Princess Spirea is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Golden Princess Spirea bloom?

Golden Princess Spirea typically blooms in late spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Golden Princess Spirea need full sun?

Golden Princess Spirea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Golden Princess Spirea drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Golden Princess Spirea handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.