Spiraea species/ Spiraea Species Guide
Two Spiraea species are commonly used for bonsai, S.japonica and S.thunbergii.
Ease of Cultivation 9/10 Suitablity and Ease for Bonsai Styling 6/10
Position Outside tree only. Full sun. Frost hardy to -10°C.
Repotting Every two years in Spring as buds extend. Use basic soil mix.
Pruning Spiraeas produce numerous long arching shoots from old wood in Spring and these need to be pruned back hard or removed to keep shape. After this, pruning should be stopped to allow flowering to occur.
After flowering, prune back repeatedly to shape through the remainder of the season. Deadhead spent flowers. Once branches have hardened and lignified they become very brittle; wire whilst shoots are still young.
Propagation Take greenwood cuttings in Summer and hardwood cuttings in Winter.
Pests and Diseases Trouble free though mildew can be a problem in warm, damp conditions, if so provide a position with better air-circulation.
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