shrub

Goldflame Spirea

Spiraea japonica 'Goldflame'

$26.00

The Story

Plant Bio

Spiraea japonica is a deciduous East Asian shrub forming a dense, mounded habit with upright-arching wiry stems. The species produces flat-topped clusters of pink flowers at the tips of new growth from late spring through mid-summer.

'Goldflame' is distinguished by its dynamic foliage progression, emerging bronze-red in spring before transitioning to yellow-green in summer and coppery-orange in fall. The rose-pink flowers contrast against the chartreuse summer leaves.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides multi-season color with bright spring foliage, pink summer flowers, and coppery-orange autumn leaves.
Practical UsesServes as an effective, low-maintenance erosion control or low hedge in urban landscapes.
Ecological BenefitsFlowers provide nectar for native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
SpeciesSpiraea japonicaJapanese Spirea

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48"

Width

60"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

10-20 years

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Mid-summer

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In flower about 3 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Rocky Knoll Farm
Ships Year Round
1+ Gal Pot
In Stock$26.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a planting site in full sun to ensure the brightest foliage coloration and maximum flower production.
  2. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and backfill with native soil, ensuring the crown sits level with the ground surface.
  3. Water deeply at planting and maintain consistent moisture until the root system is fully established.
  4. Apply a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer or a layer of compost around the root zone each spring.

Pro Tip

Prune the stems back hard to a low framework in late winter; flowers develop on new wood, and failing to prune results in a woody, sprawling center with sparse foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Prune hard annually in late winter or early spring to stimulate vigorous new flowering growth.
  • Shear lightly after the first flower flush to encourage a secondary bloom in late summer.
  • Plant in exceptionally well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

Don't

  • Do not plant in deep shade, which causes the golden foliage to fade to a dull green.
  • Avoid overwatering or planting in low-lying areas where water collects.
  • Do not leave long, untidy dead tip stubs when pruning.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Foundation PlantingMass PlantingMixed BordersHedges

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Goldflame Spirea questions

What zones can Goldflame Spirea grow in?

Goldflame 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 Goldflame Spirea deer resistant?

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

When does Goldflame Spirea bloom?

Goldflame 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 Goldflame Spirea need full sun?

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

Is Goldflame Spirea drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Goldflame 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.