Double Play Artisan Spirea

Double Play Artisan Spirea (Spiraea japonica 'Galen')

Double Play Artisan Spirea is a compact, mounded shrub that delivers both colorful new growth and a strong summer bloom show in a small footprint. Spring growth emerges rich red, then settles into a clean blue-green to green backdrop that keeps beds looking finished. In early summer, bright fuchsia-pink flower clusters add long-lasting color and bring in pollinators and hummingbirds. It is easy to maintain, dependable in sun, and a practical way to add consistent color without constant attention.

Distinctive Features

This Japanese spirea stands out for its red spring foliage that matures to a cooler blue-green to green tone, creating a noticeable seasonal change even before flowering. Flat-topped clusters of vivid pink to fuchsia blooms appear in early summer and can continue with light trimming after the first flush. The habit stays dense and uniformly mounded, making it look intentional in both formal and casual designs. It is also known for avoiding the pale, off-color shoots that can show up on some older spirea varieties.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part sun for best flowering and compact growth.
• Soil: Average, well-drained soil, tolerant of many soil types when drainage is acceptable.
• Water: Medium moisture to establish, then average watering, with improved drought tolerance once established.
• USDA Zones: Hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 8.
• Mature Size: Typically 24 to 30 inches tall and 24 to 30 inches wide.
• Habit: Compact, full-bodied mound with a consistent outline.
• Notable Traits: Often shows good deer resistance and attracts hummingbirds and pollinators.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a low focal point where red spring growth and fuchsia blooms can brighten the front of a sunny bed.
• Edging: Line walks and bed fronts for a tidy, low border that stays compact and colorful.
• Mass Planting: Plant in drifts for a strong sweep of foliage contrast and early summer flower color.
• Foundation Planting: Place along foundations where a dense mound adds structure without blocking windows.
• Containers: Use in large containers to bring season-long color and a clean, mounded form to patios and entries.

Low Maintenance Care

• Pruning: Shear lightly after the first bloom flush to encourage repeat flowering and keep the mound tight.
• Renewal: In late winter to early spring, remove a few older stems at the base to refresh vigor over time.
• Watering: Water during prolonged dry spells, especially in the first one to two seasons, for best growth and bloom.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in spring only if needed, because excess fertility can reduce flowering and loosen habit.
• Mulching: Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds, keeping mulch pulled back from the stems.

Why Choose Double Play Artisan Spirea?

• Two-Season Color: Red spring growth followed by blue-green to green foliage keeps the plant visually active.
• Vivid Bloom: Bright pink to fuchsia flower clusters deliver strong early summer color.
• Compact Habit: Dense, uniform mounding form fits small gardens, borders, and foundation plantings.
• Easy Maintenance: Simple pruning keeps it tidy and can extend the bloom season.
• Wildlife Interest: Flowers attract hummingbirds and pollinators, and it often shows good deer resistance.

Double Play Artisan Spirea is an easy way to add reliable structure and high-impact color in a compact space. Pair it with darker evergreens, blue-toned perennials, or ornamental grasses to make the flowers and spring foliage pop. With sun, decent drainage, and a quick trim after flowering, it stays dense, colorful, and dependable year after year.