Japanese Spiraea

Spiraea japonica is a deciduous, perennial shrub native to Japan, China, and Korea. Spiraea japonica was introduced in North America as an ornamental landscape plant and first cultivated in the northeastern states around 1870. Spiraea japonica has become naturalized in North America and occupies habitats similar to those of native spireas. It aggressively invades disturbed areas and forms dense stands that outcompete native species. It often spreads locally when its hardy seeds are transported along watercourses or in fill dirt. Once established, S. japonica grows quickly and forms dense stands that outcompete much of the existing native herbs and shrubs. The seeds can last for many years in the soil, making its control and the restoration of native vegetation especially difficult. Growing populations will creep into meadows, forest openings, and other sites.