Douglas Spirea
This vigorous deciduous shrub is known for its attractive purplish-pink flower plumes and adaptability to wet conditions. It features oblong to oval leaves that are toothed above the middle, with paler, often woolly undersides. Dark green foliage emerges in the spring, followed by dense clusters of small, deep pink flowers that form upright plumes, creating a striking display. The flowers give way to pod-like follicles that persist into winter. Easy to grow but intolerant of dry soil, it thrives in moist to wet soils and is commonly found in wetlands, streambanks, and bogs. This plant will form a dense thicket if not pruned, spreading by rhizomes and making it ideal for rain gardens and naturalized areas. Remove suckers to prevent spreading.
