Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess’, commonly known as Little Princess Spirea, is a compact, deciduous shrub that brings vibrant color and texture to your garden. Growing just 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, it forms a neat, rounded shape perfect for borders, foundation plantings, and small garden spaces. In late spring and throughout summer, this hardy shrub produces abundant clusters of soft pink flowers that brighten the landscape and attract butterflies. Its finely serrated green leaves provide a lush backdrop and transition to shades of reddish-bronze in autumn, adding multi-season interest.

Why Choose Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess’?

• Compact, mounded shape ideal for small spaces and borders
• Blooms heavily with soft pink flowers from late spring to summer
• Attracts butterflies and is easy to grow with minimal care

Cultivating Tips

• Plant in full sun for the best flowering, though it tolerates light shade
• Prefers well-drained soil and is adaptable to a variety of conditions
• Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain its tidy form and encourage new blooms

Design Ideas for Your Garden

• Use in border plantings to create a colorful, low-maintenance edge
• Combine with ornamental grasses or taller shrubs for layered interest
• Plant in foundation beds or as a low hedge for year-round structure and seasonal color

Ecological Benefits

• While it attracts butterflies, Little Princess Spirea does not support native wildlife or ecosystems
• Native plants provide food, shelter, and habitat for pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects
• Choosing native alternatives increases biodiversity and promotes a healthier, more sustainable garden

Since Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess’ is not a native species, here are three native alternatives available at Bumbee’s:

• Aquilegia canadensis – Wild Columbine: Native perennial with red and yellow flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators
• Arctostaphylos uva ursi – Bearberry: Evergreen groundcover with pink-white flowers and red berries, supporting birds and pollinators
• Andropogon virginicus – Broom Sedge: (a native ornamental grass that adds structure and supports wildlife)