Japanese spirea Spiraea japonica 'Gold Mound'
ABOUT
Japanese spirea 'Gold Mound' is a vibrant deciduous shrub that stands out in the garden with its golden to chartreuse foliage. The small leaves are elliptic to ovate and finely toothed, providing a feathery texture. As the season progresses, the color of the leaves may transform into a more lime green shade, especially when the plant is grown in shadier conditions. In late spring to early summer, the Japanese spirea 'Gold Mound' becomes a focal point as it bursts into color with clusters of small, pink flowers. These blooms are abundant and form a stunning contrast against the bright foliage. The flowers are attractive to butterflies and other pollinators, adding an extra layer of dynamism to the garden scene. As the seasons change, the foliage of Japanese spirea 'Gold Mound' can take on hints of orange and red, adding warm tones to the autumn landscape before the leaves drop. The overall shape of the shrub is rounded and mounding, contributing to its common use in garden beds and borders for its appealing structure and color.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Japanese Spiraea, Japanese Meadowsweet, Goldmound Spirea, Gold Mound Japanese Spirea.
Common names
Spiraea japonica 'Gold Mound'
ToxicityTo humans
Japanese meadowsweet (Spiraea japonica 'Gold Mound') is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no widespread documentation of toxic effects from ingesting parts of this plant. Therefore, it is not commonly associated with poisoning symptoms in humans.
To pets
Japanese meadowsweet is not listed as a toxic plant to pets by major animal poison control resources. It is generally regarded as safe and there are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant. However, ingestion of any plant material can potentially cause mild stomach upset in some pets. If a pet exhibits symptoms after ingesting this plant, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Gold
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Features vibrant golden to lime green foliage that adds color contrast to the garden.
- Seasonal Flowers: Produces clusters of small pink flowers in the summer, which can attract butterflies and other pollinators.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, has the ability to withstand periods of dry weather, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Dense Growth Habit: Grows densely, which can help suppress weeds around the planting area.
- Versatile Landscaping: Suitable for a variety of landscaping uses including foundation plantings, borders, and as a low hedge.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers year-round interest with its changing foliage colors and summer blooms.
- Hardiness: Can thrive in a range of hardiness zones, making it accessible to many gardeners in different climates.
- Soil Adaptability: Adapts well to a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-draining soil conditions.
- Fast Growing: Tends to grow quickly, allowing for rapid establishment and filling in of garden spaces.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Spiraea japonica 'Gold Mound', commonly known as Japanese spirea, can be used in floral arrangements and bouquets, giving a natural and wild appearance with its vibrant foliage.
- The dense branching habit of Japanese spirea makes it an ideal refuge for small birds, offering shelter and nesting opportunities.
- Japanese spirea can be planted as part of a butterfly garden due to its attractive flowers, which serve as a nectar source for various butterfly species.
- Japanese spirea can be used in educational settings such as schools or nature centers to teach pruning techniques, as it responds well to trimming and shaping.
- Due to its colorful leaves, Japanese spirea can be used in the art of leaf casting, where its leaves are used to make decorative impressions in plaster.
- Japanese spirea wood can sometimes be harvested and utilized in small woodworking projects, like crafting decorative twigs or in floral art.
- The contrasting color of the foliage can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, though it is not a common practice.
- Japanese spirea can be used for creating living fences or privacy screens in gardens, growing dense enough to obscure views when planted in a row.
- The plant’s rapid growth and resilience allow it to be used in erosion control on slopes or banks, where its root system can help stabilize soil.
- Gardeners can use Japanese spirea's changing colors throughout the season for photography projects, capturing the transitions from spring to fall.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Japanese spirea is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Japanese spirea is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability - Spiraea japonica 'Gold Mound', commonly known as Gold Mound Spirea, showcases the ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, encouraging flexibility and the capacity to adjust to changing circumstances.
- Renewal - As a deciduous shrub that blooms anew each year, it symbolizes new beginnings and the rejuvenation inherent in the cycle of life.
- Celebratory Joy - With its bright golden foliage and pink flowers, Gold Mound Spirea brings a festive, joyous atmosphere to gardens, symbolizing celebration and happiness.
- Prosperity - The abundant growth and attractive presence of this plant often represent prosperity and success in various cultures.
WaterThe Japanese Spirea 'Gold Mound' should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. It's important to avoid shallow watering that doesn't reach the root zone. During hot and dry periods, increase watering frequency to twice a week. Be mindful to adjust the watering schedule based on rainfall, making sure the soil is moist but well-drained. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightJapanese Spirea 'Gold Mound' thrives in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for this plant would be an area that is not shaded by taller plants or buildings. Adequate light is essential for the best foliage color and flower production.
TemperatureThe Japanese Spirea 'Gold Mound' is cold tolerant and can withstand winter temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit. It grows best in a range of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive in temperatures up to about 90 degrees Fahrenheit. These spireas are adaptable to many conditions but prefer to be protected from extreme heat.
PruningPrune Japanese Spirea 'Gold Mound' annually in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Pruning stimulates fresh foliage and flower production for the coming season. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can promote a second blooming and prevent the shrub from becoming leggy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Japanese Spirea 'Gold Mound' is well-draining loamy soil enriched with organic matter. A pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal for this shrub.
RepottingJapanese Spirea 'Gold Mound' is typically grown in the ground and does not require repotting. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Spirea 'Gold Mound' is adaptable to various humidity levels but prefers average garden humidity without specific requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not ideal for indoor; needs full sun, limited space stunts growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to part shade, well-draining soil, space 3 feet apart.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Japanese spirea 'Gold Mound' begins its life cycle with germination, where the seeds sprout in moist, well-drained soil during spring. The seedlings grow into juvenile plants with distinctive golden to lime-green foliage, which mature over several months. As an adult plant, 'Gold Mound' reaches its full size, displaying clusters of pink flowers in late spring to early summer attracting pollinators. After the blooming period, the plant sets seeds, which are dispersed by wind or wildlife. In the fall, the leaves may turn a bronze hue before shedding. The plant then enters a period of dormancy during the winter, conserving energy until the next growth cycle begins with the return of warmer temperatures in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter-early spring
For the Japanese Spiraea 'Gold Mound', the most popular method of propagation is through softwood cuttings. This method is generally performed in late spring or early summer when new growth is soft and flexible but has not yet matured. Gardeners should select a healthy branch and make a cutting approximately 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters) long, making sure that there are at least two or three sets of leaves on the cutting. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cut end can be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting should then be placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that the leaf nodes are buried as roots will develop from these points. The cutting needs to be kept moist and in a warm place but out of direct sunlight until roots have formed, which can take several weeks. Once rooted, the new spiraea plants can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting out in their final position.
