Gold Flame Spirea

Growth rate: Moderate growth rate; mature height of 2-3 feet and width of 2-3 feet.

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Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage a second bloom. Can be pruned more aggressively in late winter or early spring to rejuvenate.

Fertilization: Apply a general-purpose fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Winter Protection: In colder zones, applying a protective layer of mulch around the base can help insulate roots against extreme winter temperatures.


Choose a location with well-draining soil in full sun to partial shade. Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the root ball. Plant the spirea, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly. Space plants 2-3 feet apart to allow for mature spread.

The Gold Flame Spirea thrives in well-drained soil and requires regular watering, particularly during dry periods. Water deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. This shrub performs best in full sun to partial shade, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. While it can tolerate some shade, maximum sunlight exposure will enhance its foliage color and overall vigor.

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Gold Flame Spirea typically reaches a mature size of about 2 to 3 feet in height and width. However, under optimal growing conditions, it may spread slightly wider. This compact shrub is valued for its dense, mounding habit and attractive foliage, making it suitable for various landscape settings, including borders, mass plantings, and foundation plantings. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and size while promoting healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Gold Flame Spirea is known for its moderate growth rate. On average, it can grow about 6 to 8 inches per year under optimal growing conditions. However, growth rates may vary depending on factors such as soil quality, sunlight exposure, watering frequency, and overall care. Providing adequate nutrients, regular pruning, and proper maintenance can help promote healthy growth and enhance the appearance of this shrub.

No, Gold Flame Spirea is not considered invasive. It's a popular cultivated variety of spirea known for its compact size, colorful foliage, and attractive pink flowers. However, like many garden plants, it's essential to monitor its growth and prevent it from spreading aggressively in certain environments. Proper care and maintenance, including regular pruning and deadheading, can help control its growth and prevent any potential invasiveness.

When planting a Gold Flame Spirea, consider the following optimal planting conditions:

Sunlight: Gold Flame Spirea thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and foliage color.

Soil: Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, as spireas prefer moist but not waterlogged conditions. The soil pH can vary but ideally should be slightly acidic to neutral.

Space: Provide adequate space for the shrub to spread. Gold Flame Spirea typically reaches heights of 3 to 4 feet and spreads of 4 to 6 feet, so allow ample room for growth.

Climate: Gold Flame Spirea is adaptable to various climates but generally thrives in temperate regions. It can withstand moderate cold temperatures but may suffer in extreme heat or cold.

Landscaping Use: Use Gold Flame Spirea as a focal point in mixed borders, foundation plantings, or as part of mass plantings for a colorful display. It also works well in cottage gardens or as a low hedge.

Maintenance: Consider accessibility for maintenance tasks such as pruning and deadheading. Planting near walkways or other structures can make it easier to care for the shrub as needed.

By selecting a suitable location based on these factors, you can ensure optimal growth and performance for your Gold Flame Spirea shrub.

Goldmound and Gold Flame Spirea are both cultivars of Spirea x bumalda, but they have some differences:

Goldmound Spirea:

Foliage: The leaves of Goldmound Spirea are bright yellow-green in spring and summer, turning yellow-orange in the fall.
Flower Color: It produces clusters of pink flowers in late spring to early summer.
Size: Typically grows to be around 2 to 3 feet tall and wide.
Use: Often used as a low hedge, border plant, or in mass plantings.

Gold Flame Spirea:

Foliage: The leaves of Gold Flame Spirea emerge red-bronze in spring, maturing to bright yellow-green, and turn orange-red in the fall.
Flower Color: It produces clusters of pink flowers in late spring to early summer, similar to Goldmound Spirea.
Size: Can grow slightly larger than Goldmound, reaching heights of 3 to 4 feet and spreads of 4 to 6 feet.
Use: Suitable for mixed borders, foundation plantings, or as a focal point in the landscape due to its larger size.

Overall, while both cultivars have similar flower colors and care requirements, Goldmound tends to stay smaller and has bright yellow-green foliage, while Gold Flame may grow larger with reddish-bronze spring foliage.

Yes, you can cut back Spirea, including Gold Flame Spirea, in the fall. Pruning in the fall helps to remove dead or diseased branches and shape the shrub before winter dormancy. However, it's generally recommended to perform major pruning and shaping of Spirea in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This timing allows the shrub to recover quickly and promotes vigorous growth and flowering during the growing season. If you choose to prune in the fall, avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant's overall growth to avoid stressing the shrub excessively.

Caring for Gold Flame Spirea involves several key steps to ensure its health and vitality:

Sunlight: Plant the Gold Flame Spirea in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. This shrub thrives in sunlight but can tolerate some shade.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the plant's establishment period. Once established, Gold Flame Spirea is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry spells.

Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Amending the soil with organic matter can improve drainage and fertility.

Pruning: Prune Gold Flame Spirea in late winter or early spring to promote vigorous growth and maintain its desired shape. Remove dead or damaged branches and thin out crowded growth to improve air circulation.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as compost or shredded bark, around the base of the shrub to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pest and Disease Control: Monitor the shrub for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Additionally, ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.

By providing the proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy the vibrant foliage and abundant blooms of Gold Flame Spirea throughout the growing season.

The best time to plant Spirea is typically in the spring or fall:

Spring planting: Planting in spring allows the shrub to establish its root system before the heat of summer. Aim for early spring, after the last frost date in your area.

Fall planting: Fall is also an excellent time to plant Spirea, as the cooler temperatures and increased moisture help the plant establish roots without the stress of summer heat. Aim to plant in early to mid-fall, allowing enough time for the roots to establish before winter.

Regardless of the planting season, ensure the shrub receives adequate water during the establishment period and is planted in well-draining soil. Avoid planting during extreme weather conditions, such as heatwaves or freezing temperatures, as this can stress the plant and hinder its establishment.

Several factors could cause Spirea to turn brown:

Watering issues: Over or underwatering can lead to stress, causing leaves to turn brown. Ensure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Sun exposure: While Spirea generally prefers full sun, excessive heat and sunlight can scorch its leaves, turning them brown. Consider providing some shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Soil conditions: Poor soil quality, such as nutrient deficiencies or compacted soil, can impact the plant's health, leading to browning of the foliage. Test the soil and amend it as needed to improve drainage and nutrient levels.

Pests and diseases: Infestations or diseases, such as spider mites, aphids, or fungal infections, can cause browning of leaves. Inspect the plant carefully for any signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.

Ensure your Spirea is planted in well-draining soil, receives adequate sunlight, and is watered properly to prevent browning of the foliage. If the issue persists, consider consulting with a local gardening expert for further assistance.

Yes, Spirea is generally heat tolerant. However, it's important to note that while it can withstand moderate to high temperatures, it may still benefit from some protection during extreme heatwaves, especially if planted in areas with intense sunlight and limited access to water. Proper watering and mulching can also help maintain its health and vitality during periods of heat stress.