Spiraea blumei
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Frost limit
- −23.3 °C
Cultivation
Tolerates most soils. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus. A variable species, it is often confused in gardens with S. trilobata.
Propagation
Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame if possible. It is likely to require stratification before it germinates, so stored seed should be sown in a cold frame as early in the year as you receive it. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle, and grow them on in a cold frame for their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a light sandy soil a frame. Cuttings of mature wood of the current seasons growth, 15cm long, October/November in an outdoor frame. Division of suckers in early spring. They can be planted out straight into their permanent positions.
Edible uses
The leaves are a tea substitute.
Habitat
Thickets and ravines, 600 - 2000 metres in W. Hupeh.
Native range
E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.