Broad-Leaved Meadowsweet

(Spiraea alba var. latifolia)

Broad-Leaved Meadowsweet (Spiraea alba var. latifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Spiraea alba var. latifolia, commonly known as Broad-Leaved Meadowsweet, is a deciduous perennial shrub native to wetland margins, such as marshes, swamps, and along streams and rivers in Eastern North America. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters) and a width of 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters). The shrub has a rounded form with slender stems and alternately arranged leaves that are broad and serrated. During the summer, Broad-Leaved Meadowsweet produces clusters of small, white, showy flowers that are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

This plant is valued for its ease of maintenance and the ornamental quality of its flowers, which add a light, airy texture to garden settings. It is often used in rain gardens, naturalized areas, and as a component of wildlife gardens due to its ability to thrive in moist conditions and its benefit to pollinators. Broad-Leaved Meadowsweet prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade, and it grows well in medium-draining clay, loam, or sandy soils. It requires medium amounts of water, reflecting its adaptation to wetland habitats. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to leaf spot diseases in humid conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 3-4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wetland margins, such as marshes, swamps, and along streams and rivers in Eastern North America

Other Names

Common Names: Meadowsweet, Eastern Meadowsweet, Broadleaf Meadowsweet

Scientific Names: , Spiraea alba var. latifolia, Spiraea alba subsp. latifolia, Spiraea alba var. latifolia, Spiraea alba var. latifolia, Spiraea alba var. latifolia, Spiraea alba var. septentionalis, Spiraea alba var. septentrionalis, Spiraea alba var. septentrionalis, Spiraea carpinifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: