Species

Spiraea japonicaJapanese Spirea

15 other cultivars

shrub

Double Play Candy Corn Spirea

Spiraea japonica 'Yan'

Same species

Species

Spiraea japonicaJapanese Spirea

15 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

21 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Deciduous shrub (15-20 years)

Native To

Japan, China, Korea

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Spiraea japonica is a dense, mounding deciduous shrub valued for its long bloom season of flat-topped flower clusters and its adaptability to a wide range of garden conditions. Many cultivars feature colorful foliage. Double Play Candy Corn ('Yan') is a showstopper, with new growth emerging candy-apple red, maturing to pineapple yellow, and finally green. The dark purple flowers create a stunning, season-long color contrast.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

This shrub is a powerhouse of color, providing a dynamic, season-long display with its multi-hued foliage and contrasting flowers. Its compact, mounding habit makes it a neat and tidy addition to any garden design.

Its small size and tough nature make it ideal for low-maintenance mass plantings, foundation beds, or as a colorful, low border. It is also an excellent choice for container gardening.

The flowers are attractive to a variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees, providing a valuable nectar source during the summer months.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight.
Dig a hole that is twice the width of the container.
Remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen the roots.
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly.
Apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture.

Pro Tip

For the most vibrant foliage colors, plant in full sun; the colors will be less intense in partial shade.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune back hard in late winter or early spring for the best shape and foliage.
Provide consistent water, especially during hot, dry weather.
Deadhead after the first flush of blooms to encourage more flowers.
Plant in groups or masses for the greatest visual impact.

Don't

Do not plant in deep shade, as foliage color and flowering will be poor.
Avoid planting in soggy, poorly drained soil.
Don't be afraid to prune it hard; it blooms on new wood.
Avoid overhead watering late in the day to prevent fungal diseases.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant front-of-border accentColorful mass planting or low hedgeEye-catching container specimen

Companion Plants

Heuchera 'Citronelle' Sedum 'Autumn Joy' Nepeta 'Walker's Low' Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Double Play Candy Corn Spirea questions

What zones can Double Play Candy Corn Spirea grow in?

Double Play Candy Corn Spirea is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. 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 Candy Corn Spirea deer resistant?

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

When does Double Play Candy Corn Spirea bloom?

Double Play Candy Corn Spirea typically blooms in late spring through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Double Play Candy Corn Spirea need full sun?

Double Play Candy Corn Spirea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Double Play Candy Corn Spirea drought tolerant?

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