Botanical profile

Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Cherry On Top'

Latin name
Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Cherry On Top'
Common name
False spirea 'Cherry On Top'
Type
Shrub
Family
Rosaceae

Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Cherry On Top' is a hardy and ornamental shrub, appreciated for its remarkable seasonal evolution: its feathery foliage emerges coppery-pink in spring, turns light green in summer, then takes on golden to orange-red hues in autumn. In July, it produces upright panicles of white flowers, followed by very decorative cherry-red fruits that persist until autumn. Its bushy habit is more compact than the species, with a moderate suckering tendency that is easy to control. Very hardy, it tolerates poor soils, humidity, and harsh conditions well. 'Cherry On Top' combines striking foliage, summer flowering, and colorful fruits, providing a strong seasonal presence in naturalistic or structured designs.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 2
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Regular watering
Fertilization
Slow-release fertilizer 14-7-14 or 4-2-8. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Add Myke at planting.
Soil type
Neutral to slightly acidic, well drained
Minimum temperature
'-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Summer
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Small, decorative cherry-red fruits until autumn
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Shrubby
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
1.5 to 2 m (5 to 7 feet)
Width
1.5 m (5 feet)
Growth rate
fast
Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.