Japanese Spiraea 'Double Play Candy Corn'

Double Play Candy Corn Spiraea (Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play Candy Corn’). Spiraea japonica ‘Double Play Candy Corn’ is a Japanese spiraea with strong ornamental appeal, prized for its vibrant foliage and summer blooms. In spring, young leaves emerge orange-red before turning bright golden yellow, with orange and red hues appearing throughout the season, providing a continuous colorful display in the garden. In late spring and early summer, an abundance of purple to violet flowers offers a remarkable contrast with the foliage. This small, rounded deciduous shrub is ideal for beds, borders, or containers, attracting bees and butterflies while being deer-resistant.

To plant Double Play Candy Corn Spiraea, choose a suitable exposure: full sun to partial shade. The recommended soil is well-drained. Water the root ball before planting and ensure water can drain after planting. During establishment, check moisture by hand before watering again. Spread mulch around the base, leaving the crown clear. Avoid systematic fertilizer applications without considering soil richness. In Quebec, choose a period when the soil is thawed and easy to work with.

Allow a width of 90 cm (3 ft) when planning the placement of this plant in the garden. The indicated height of 60 cm (2 ft) helps choose its position relative to neighboring plants. Maintain access to the base for weeding, checking moisture, and removing damaged parts. Combine this variety with plants that have compatible light and water needs. If you are considering a container, first verify that its volume and drainage are suitable for root development. Roots in pots are more exposed to cold than those planted in the ground.