Spirea in Texas

There is no lovelier or more romantic shrub than a bridal wreath spirea.

Spirea is a medium sized deciduous shrub that produce cascades of flowers in spring, mid-March in Dallas. They grow in long, leafy strands that produce small bouquets of white flowers. They are stunning. If you prune them, however, when the summer comes and blooms have faded, you will not have the beautiful cascading shrub you see below. These are typically not hedge type shrubs. Below you will find some thoughtful and creative ways to use the spirea – in Dallas.

Spirea is frequently recommended by Texas Master Gardeners and horticulturists for its easy care, versatility, and ornamental value in Texas gardens, particularly in the eastern and central parts of the state.

Mid-March in Dallas, Spireas are at their peak. This is an easy, easy shrub to root. Take a long branch in the fall, pull it to the ground, cover it with dirt and place a small brick over it. Next spring, it should have nice little roots. Or take a long branch with green on the end, strip it of most leaves and place it in a pot you intend to water and fertilize all summer. In the fall you will have a new spirea to plant in the ground for spring.

Bridal Wreath Spirea Blooms Mid-March Texas

You want the lovely cascading spires but if you want to keep your spirea low growing, prune it deep, from the base in the center, early after it stops blooming. This allow fresh growth, with time for the flowers to develop for next spring, and keeps the spirea from getting too tall – or wide if that’s your issue. But you always want to keep most of the beautiful, broad cascading spires. The secret is to plant your spirea where it can ‘be itself’.

See more on Loropetalum here.

Spirea blooming in tandem with Loropetalum and Red Ruffle Azaleas.

Popular Varieties for Texas

Spiraea japonica ‘Anthony Waterer’
Compact variety with rosy-pink blooms; reaches about 3 feet tall.
Tolerates a range of soil types and handles Texas heat with adequate moisture.
Spiraea x vanhouttei (Vanhoutte Spirea or Bridal Wreath)
Known for cascading white flower clusters in spring.
Larger variety reaching 5 to 6 feet; suited for more spacious gardens.
Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess’
Dwarf form with soft pink flowers; only 2 to 3 feet tall.
Ideal for small spaces or edging.

Bridal Wreath Spirea Blooms Mid-March Texas: Long branches prunded back inhibits spring beauty

The spirea above was trimmed so its cascading branches are gone.

Spirea White Flowering Shrub

Good Blooming Combinations

Spirea blooms with Wisteria Lady Banks Lutea and Cross Vines. See more here.

Dogwoods and spirea bloom together

Spirea (genus Spiraea) is a deciduous flowering shrub appreciated for its showy blooms, fine-textured foliage, and adaptability in a variety of garden settings. While not native to Texas, spirea performs well in many regions of the state, particularly in areas with moderate climates and well-draining soil. It is often used in borders, foundation plantings, and as a low hedge.

General Characteristics

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer; some varieties bloom again in fall
Flower Colors: White, pink, or red depending on cultivar
Foliage: Fine-textured, green to bluish-green, with some varieties offering fall color
Growth Habit: Mounded, rounded, and compact; sizes vary from 2 to 6 feet tall and wide
Maintenance: Low; occasional pruning after flowering helps encourage new growth and shape

Growing Conditions

Sun: Full sun to partial shade (best blooms in full sun)
Soil: Prefers well-drained soil; moderately drought-tolerant once established
Hardiness: Performs best in USDA zones 5–9, which includes much of Texas

Recognition by Texas A&M

As of now, spirea has not been designated a Texas Superstar by Texas A&M AgriLife.

Landscape Use