Spiraea japonica 'Goldmound'
Spiraea japonica 'Goldmound' is a compact deciduous shrub valued for its vibrant golden yellow foliage and soft pink flower clusters that appear in early to midsummer. Its bright foliage provides consistent color through the growing season, making it an easy way to add contrast and warmth to borders and foundation plantings.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; tolerant of dry conditions once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This shrub is native to Japan and is not native to North America but is widely used in ornamental landscapes for its reliable performance and colorful foliage.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts a variety of butterflies including Painted Ladies and Eastern Tiger Swallowtails which visit the flat flower clusters for nectar.
Bees
- Supports native bees and honeybees which forage across the many small florets during its summer bloom period.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow each plant to develop a full rounded form.
Landscape Placement
- Works well in foundation plantings, low hedges, and mixed borders where its golden foliage provides season long contrast.
Companion Plants
- Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' (Feather Reed Grass) - Adds vertical structure and movement behind the low mounded shrub.
- Hydrangea paniculata 'Little Lime' (Panicle Hydrangea) - Provides larger summer blooms that complement the shrub’s color and form.
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' (Lavender) - Brings contrasting texture and cool toned flowers in similar sun loving conditions.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Meadow Sage) - Offers upright flower spikes that contrast with the rounded shrub shape.
- Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (Catmint) - Softens the planting with flowing foliage and extended bloom.