Goldflame spirea (Spiraea x bumalda 'Goldflame') is a deciduous shrub that is highly ornamental due to its beautiful foliage and colorful flowers. It is a hardy plant that grows in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9, and it can be grown in full sun and partial shade.

Being a flowering plant, Goldflame spirea requires pollination to produce the next generation of plants. The pollination of this plant is done by insects, especially bees and butterflies, which are attracted to the flowers due to their scent and nectar.

The flowers of Goldflame spirea are small and pink, with a diameter of approximately one inch. They grow in clusters on the tips of the branches and bloom in late spring or early summer. The flowers are hermaphroditic, meaning they contain both male and female reproductive structures, and they are pollinated by the transfer of pollen from the anthers to the stigma.

Goldflame spirea is self-fertile, meaning it can pollinate itself. However, cross-pollination with other plants can increase genetic diversity and produce healthier offspring. This can be achieved by planting other varieties of spirea nearby, or by planting other plants that flower at the same time as Goldflame spirea.

In conclusion, pollination is an important process for Goldflame spirea to produce the next generation of plants. Bees and butterflies are the main pollinators for this plant, and cross-pollination can increase genetic diversity and produce healthier offspring.

Frequently Asked Questions: Goldflame Spirea (Spiraea x bumalda 'Goldflame')

General Information

What is Goldflame Spirea (Spiraea x bumalda 'Goldflame')?

Goldflame Spirea is a deciduous shrub with bright golden foliage that emerges in the spring and fades to yellow-green in the summer. It produces small, pink flowers in the summer that attract butterflies and other beneficial insects.

How tall and wide does Goldflame Spirea grow?

Goldflame Spirea typically grows to be 2-3 feet tall and wide, but can grow up to 5 feet tall with proper pruning.

What are the growing conditions for Goldflame Spirea?

Goldflame Spirea prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Does Goldflame Spirea require pruning?

Goldflame Spirea benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. It can be pruned in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches, and to shape the plant as desired. It can also be lightly pruned after the first flush of blooms to encourage a second flush later in the season.

Care and Maintenance

How often should I water Goldflame Spirea?

Goldflame Spirea prefers moderate moisture and should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. It is important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Does Goldflame Spirea require fertilizer?

Goldflame Spirea benefits from a balanced fertilizer application in the spring, before new growth appears. It can also be fertilized again in mid-summer to encourage additional blooms.

Does Goldflame Spirea attract pests or diseases?

Goldflame Spirea is relatively pest and disease resistant, but can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Propagation

Can Goldflame Spirea be propagated?

Yes, Goldflame Spirea can be propagated through softwood cuttings taken in the early summer, or hardwood cuttings taken in the late fall or winter. It can also be propagated through division in the spring.

How long does it take for Goldflame Spirea to grow from a cutting?

Softwood cuttings taken in the early summer can take 4-6 weeks to root and begin to show new growth. Hardwood cuttings taken in the late fall or winter can take several months to root and show new growth.

Planting Goldflame Spirea

Goldflame spirea is a relatively easy plant to grow. Here are some guidelines for planting:

• Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
• Make sure the soil is well-draining and fertile.
• Dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the plant.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, gently pressing down to remove any air pockets.
• Water the plant thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base. This will help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Caring for Goldflame Spirea

Once planted, it's important to properly care for your goldflame spirea. Here are some tips:

• Water regularly, especially during periods of drought, making sure the soil doesn’t dry out completely.
• Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer according to package directions.
• Prune in the late winter or early spring to shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
• Monitor for pests and disease, and treat as necessary.

If you follow these guidelines, your Goldflame Spirea should grow and thrive for years to come.