Hardhack, Steeplebush

Spiraea tomentosa

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Basic Information

Family: Rosaceae

Genus: spiraea

Plant ID (slug): spiraea-tomentosa

Numeric ID: 26346

USDA Hardiness: 3-7

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Spiraea tomentosa is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from July to August. 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

N. and C. Europe. Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Manitoba, south to Georgia and Kansas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Birthing aid Diuretic Dysentery Tonic The flowers give feebly the medicinal action of salicylic acid (aspirin) and are used in decoction for their diuretic and tonic effect[4]. An infusion of the flowers is used as an astringent[207]. An infusion of the leaves can be used in the treatment of dysentery[257]. An infusion of the flowers and the leaves has been used to counteract the sickness of pregnancy and also to facilitate childbirth[257]. The roots are astringent and have been used in the treatment of diarrhoea[4, 207]. An infusion of the leaves is also used[4, 213].