Rock Spiraea

(Holodiscus dumosus)

Rock Spiraea (Holodiscus dumosus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Holodiscus dumosus, commonly known as Rock Spiraea, is a deciduous shrub native to rocky slopes, open woodlands, and chaparral of the Intermountain West of the USA and northern Mexico. It varies greatly in size, ranging from 1.6 to 20 feet (0.49 to 6.10 meters) in height and 5 to 10 feet (1.5 to 3.0 meters) in width, with a natural, arching form. The stems grow from a woody root crown and spread outward, creating a dense thicket. The small, feathery flowers are pinkish-white to cream-colored and bloom from June through August, attracting a variety of pollinators. The flowers are not particularly showy but add a delicate texture to the shrub. The seeds are produced in tiny, dry capsules and are wind-dispersed. This shrub can reproduce both by seed and vegetatively by sprouting from the root crown.

Rock Spiraea is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to stabilize slopes, making it suitable for erosion control. It is used in wildlife gardens for its ability to provide cover and food for birds and insects, in natural landscaping designs, and as a large container plant for patios and courtyards. It thrives in part-shade to full sun conditions, requiring low amounts of water once established, and is adaptable to a variety of well-drained soils. While it prefers sheltered locations, it can tolerate a range of environmental conditions, including wind and direct sunlight. Gardeners should note that it may require pruning to maintain a desirable shape and to prevent it from becoming too leggy.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 1-6 feet
  • Width: 5-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Rocky slopes, open woodlands, and chaparral of the Intermountain West of the USA and northern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Mountain Spray , Rock-Spiraea , Bush Oceanspray , Rockspirea , Glandular Oceanspray

Scientific Names: Holodiscus dumosus , Holodiscus discolor var. dumosus , Sericotheca dumosa , Holodiscus dumosus var. dumosus , Spiraea discolor var. dumosa , Spiraea dumosa , Holodiscus glabrescens subsp. dumosus , Holodiscus glabrescens var. dumosus , Schizonotus argenteus var. dumosus , Schizonotus dumosus

GBIF Accepted Name: Holodiscus dumosus (Nutt.) A.Heller