Description
Steeplebush (Spiraea tomentosa) is a small deciduous shrub that grows 2′ – 4′ tall and prefers wet, sandy soil in full sun, though it will tolerate a range of soil conditions as well as light shade. Its most notable feature is the pink/purple blooms that grow on large, dense, terminal spikes 4-8″ long. Faded flower clusters can be removed to encourage additional blooms. Steeplebush flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and it is a larval host plant to the Columbia Silkmoth, pictured above. Its astringent properties make it deer resistant. Steeplebush performs well in rain gardens and is perfect for butterfly/pollinator gardens.
