Spiraea latifolia (Meadowsweet)

A genuine four-season restoration favorite confirmed deer resistant, broadleaf meadowsweet is a documented larval host for the Spring Azure butterfly and the primary host plant for the New England Buck Moth (Hemileuca lucina) - a real ecological specificity that goes well beyond its reputation as a Mid-Atlantic restoration favorite.

Species Overview

Spiraea latifolia, commonly called broadleaf meadowsweet, is a deciduous shrub native to wetlands and meadows in northeastern North America, growing 2 to 4 feet tall with upright, arching stems. Clusters of small, fragrant, pink-to-white flowers bloom in mid to late summer, giving way to brown seed capsules that persist into winter as songbird food.

Application

• Wetland and moist meadow restoration - a favorite of Mid-Atlantic restoration landscapers
• Larval host habitat for the Spring Azure butterfly and the New England Buck Moth
• Deer-pressured sites - confirmed deer resistant
• Rain garden and naturalized wildlife border plantings

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Moist, acidic soils; wetlands and meadows
• Plant Type: Shrub
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Yellow
• Bloom Color / Period: White, Pink; June-August
• Wetland Indicator Status: NI (No Indicator) - see flags
• Native Range: Northeast/Mid-Atlantic (full list)
• Hydrology: Mesic-Moist
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate
• Flood Tolerance: Moderate - A moist thicket shrub tolerant of periodically wet soil.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Multi-stemmed/Thicket-forming - suckering
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-7
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports butterflies, supports moths

Planting Guidance

• Spreads by suckering to colonize an area - well suited to naturalized wetland edges and wild gardens where its spreading habit is an asset rather than a liability. Flowers turn brown late in the season and often persist on branches into winter.