Baker County Extension Alicia R. Lamborn Environmental Horticulture Agent 1025 West Macclenny Avenue Macclenny, FL 32063 904‐259‐3520 email: [email protected] http://baker.ifas.ufl.edu ‘Anthony Waterer’ Pink Spirea Spiraea x bumalda ‘Anthony Waterer’ Plant Description: Baby’s Breath Spirea (Spiraea thunbergii) and Bridal Wreath Spirea (Spiraea prunifolia) have long been Southern garden favorites. But if you’d like a Spirea that’s a little different, look for a dwarf pink spirea called ‘Anthony Waterer’. This deciduous, dwarf shrub has showy clusters of rosy pink blooms that are eye‐catching during summer, and foliage that turns reddish‐maroon during fall. It makes an attractive addition to a cottage garden, butterfly garden, or mixed border. Mature Size: 2‐3 feet tall; 3‐4 feet wide Growth Rate: Moderate Plant Habit: Upright Ornamental Characteristics & Uses: Foliage Color: Green Flower Color: Pink Bloom Time: Summer Attracts Wildlife: Butterflies Uses: Landscape accent; mixed border; mass planting; butterfly garden; cut flower Growing Requirements: Cold Hardiness Zone(s): 5 – 9 Exposure: Full Sun; Partial Shade Soil Tolerances: Prefers well‐drained soils Soil pH: Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline Maintenance: Easy/Low General Care & Growing Tips: These plants may require regular watering during establishment. Like most plants, they benefit from a 2‐ to 3‐inch layer of organic mulch to help retain soil moisture. Apply a slow‐release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins. Prune to shape after flowering; for a formal appearance, shear annually after flowering. Common Pests: Leaf spots may appear during prolonged periods of wet weather but are not of major concern. Photo Credit: Alicia Lamborn The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) is an Equal Opportunity Institution authorized to provide research, educational information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function with non‐discrimination with respect to race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, IFAS, Florida A. & M. University Cooperative Extension Program, and Boards of County Commissioners Cooperating. 2013 .