Bridewort, Willowleaf meadowsweet

Spiraea salicifolia

Basic Information

Family: Rosaceae

Genus: spiraea

Plant ID (slug): spiraea-salicifolia

Numeric ID: 26344

USDA Hardiness: 4-8

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Spiraea salicifolia is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Europe to E. Asia. Naturalized in Wales and N. Britain[17].

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Hedge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Oil Edible Uses: Oil Young leaves - cooked[177]. Rich in vitamin C[105].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Pectoral Vitamin C The roots have been used in the treatment of coughs and chest colds[257]. Immature seeds have been used in the treatment of diarrhoea with blood[257].