Douglas Spirea (Spiraea douglasii), also known as hardhack or steeplebush, is best known for its large, pink, pointy clusters of small flowers that bloom from May to July. The flower clusters turn dark in late summer and linger on the plant for months. Douglas Spirea favors open, sunny areas and can tolerate seasonal flooding. It can spread aggressively in moist environments but is better behaved in drier areas.
Classification: Perennial Key Characteristics: Large clusters of small pink flowers Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade Water Requirements: Moist, seasonally wet soil Ease of Growing: High Growth Rate: Fast Bloom Time: May – July Spreads: By rhizome Benefits: Wildlife, Rain garden, Pollinators, Beneficial insects, Wildfire resistant, Riparian zones, On Portland Plant List, Hummingbirds Edible: No Mature Height: 6 feet Mature Width: 3-7 feet
