Double Play Red Spirea
Spiraea x bumalda 'Double Play Red'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
30 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
10+ years
Native To
Garden origin (parent species from Japan)
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets and humans
The Story
Plant Bio
Spiraea x bumalda, a hybrid group of compact, mounded deciduous shrubs, are known for their long bloom season and tolerance of a wide range of conditions. They feature toothed, oval leaves and dense, flat-topped clusters of flowers. A standout cultivar whose 'Double Play' name refers to its two-season interest: colorful bronze-red new foliage in spring and vibrant fuchsia-red flower clusters in summer. Its compact habit makes it ideal for borders and small gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck well-draining soil around the roots for stability
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
- Plant in full sun for best color and bloom
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune after flowering to shape and promote new growth
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for vibrant blooms and foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Fertilize in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Avoid heavy shade which reduces flowering
- Don’t ignore pest signs
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Double Play Red Spirea questions
What zones can Double Play Red Spirea grow in?
Double Play Red Spirea is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Double Play Red Spirea deer resistant?
Yes — Double Play Red Spirea is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Double Play Red Spirea bloom?
Double Play Red Spirea typically blooms in late spring to summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Double Play Red Spirea need full sun?
Double Play Red Spirea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Double Play Red Spirea drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Double Play Red Spirea handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Spiraea to compare
Bumalda Spiraea Mix
Spiraea x bumalda 'Mix'
Hybrid Spirea
Spiraea x hybrida 'Mix'
Magic Carpet Japanese Spirea
Spiraea japonica 'Magic Carpet'
Double Play Doozie Spirea
Spiraea japonica 'Double Play Doozie'
Vanhoutte Spirea
Spiraea x vanhouttei 'Mix'
Double Play Candy Corn Spiraea
Spiraea japonica 'Double Play Candy Corn'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Double Play Red Spirea with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
