Spiraea japonica ‘Goldflame‘, commonly known as Goldflame Spirea, is a colorful, deciduous shrub valued for its vibrant foliage and delicate pink flowers. This compact shrub grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, making it an ideal choice for borders, foundation plantings, and mass plantings. New foliage emerges a striking bronze-red in spring, matures to bright yellow-green in summer, and finishes with rich copper-orange tones in fall. In late spring to early summer, clusters of small pink flowers bloom above the foliage, attracting butterflies and other pollinators.

Why Choose Spiraea japonica ‘Goldflame’?

• Color-changing foliage offers seasonal interest from spring through fall
• Compact, rounded shape is perfect for small spaces and borders
• Soft pink flower clusters attract butterflies and pollinators

Cultivating Tips

• Plant in full sun for the best foliage color and flowering
• Adapts to a variety of soils but prefers well-drained conditions
• Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth

Design Ideas for Your Garden

• Use as a colorful border plant to brighten walkways or garden beds
• Mass plant for a bold display of changing foliage color
• Combine with purple-leaved plants or ornamental grasses for dramatic contrast

Ecological Benefits

• While Goldflame Spirea attracts butterflies with its blooms, it does not provide food or habitat for native wildlife
• Native plants support local ecosystems by offering resources for pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects
• Incorporating native species increases biodiversity and promotes sustainable gardening practices

Since Spiraea japonica ‘Goldflame’ is not a native species, here are three native alternatives available at Bumbee’s that provide ecological benefits:

• Aquilegia canadensis – Wild Columbine: Red and yellow flowers attract hummingbirds and native bees
• Arctostaphylos uva ursi – Bearberry: Evergreen groundcover with nectar-rich flowers and berries for birds
• Andropogon virginicus – Broom Sedge: Native grass that provides food, shelter, and nesting material for wildlife