Common Names: White Meadowsweet
Scientific Name: Spiraea alba
Size: 1 Gallon
 
Shrub Characteristics
• Deciduous: White Meadowsweet is a deciduous shrub, shedding its leaves in the fall.
• Size: Typically grows 3–6 ft. tall and wide.
• Leaves: Alternate, simple, narrow, lance-shaped green leaves with finely toothed edges.
• Bloom Color: Dense clusters of small white flowers arranged along upright flower spikes.
• Bloom Time: Summer
• Growth: 1–2 ft./year
• Age: Can live 20+ years.
 
Growing Conditions
• Water Use: Medium to High
• Light Requirement: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil Moisture: Moist to Wet
 
Ecological Benefits
White Meadowsweet (Spiraea alba) is a native shrub of the Mid-Atlantic Piedmont, commonly found in wet meadows, marshes, streambanks, and other moist habitats. Its abundant white flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other native pollinators, providing an important nectar and pollen source during the summer.
 
Its dense growth provides cover and habitat for wildlife, while its root system helps stabilize soil and reduce erosion. Its tolerance for moist to wet soils makes it a valuable choice for rain gardens, riparian buffers, wet meadows, and ecological restoration projects.
 
Local Ecotype Option: This plant is available as a local ecotype variety. Our team hand-collects seeds from native wildflowers growing in conservation areas we manage, and these plants are grown from that locally collected seed. Local ecotypes are sourced from plants adapted to the conditions of our region and help preserve local genetic diversity, support regional wildlife, and strengthen the resilience of native plant communities.