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Steeplebush

Spiraea tomentosa

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Category
Tree / Shrub / Vine
Sun
Full to Partial
Soil moisture
Wet to Medium-Wet
Bloom time
Jul–Sep
Bloom color
Pink
Notes
Acidic, Rhizomatous

About Steeplebush

Steeplebush is a striking deciduous shrub celebrated for its dense, steeple-like spires of fuzzy pink flowers that bloom in the heat of late summer. Growing two to four feet tall, this mound-shaped shrub features upright stems covered in fine hairs and unique, orange-brown bark that provides winter interest. It is native to boggy areas and wet meadows, specifically preferring acidic, moist soils in full sun. The vibrant pink blooms are highly attractive to butterflies and bees, while the plant’s dense form provides cover for small wildlife. Steeplebush spreads slowly via rhizomes, making it excellent for naturalizing in damp areas of the landscape. With its bright summer flowers and yellow fall foliage, it is a versatile choice for rain gardens or low-lying areas with poor drainage.

Native range

Native to 31 states:

ArkansasConnecticutDelawareGeorgiaIllinoisIndianaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMassachusettsMarylandMaineMichiganMinnesotaMissouriMississippiNorth CarolinaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew YorkOhioOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaTennesseeVirginiaVermontWashingtonWisconsinWest Virginia

County range map

BONAP county-level native range map for Spiraea tomentosa

Range map courtesy of BONAP (Biota of North America Program).

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