Birchleaf spirea

Birchleaf Spirea ‘Thor’ (Spiraea betulifolia ‘Thor’). Spiraea betulifolia 'Thor' is a dwarf and very hardy spirea, forming a small, dense, and regular ball, ideal for borders, embankments, rock gardens, or compact plant beds. Its unique, dense, and veined foliage, reminiscent of birch in spring with coppery bronze highlights, turns bright green in summer, then flamboyant orange-yellow to vivid red in autumn. In summer, it produces white flowers in flattened corymbs, beautifully contrasting with the foliage. Very tolerant of cold, wind, poor soils, and temporary drought, 'Thor' requires almost no maintenance.

To plant Birchleaf Spirea ‘Thor’, choose a suitable exposure: sun. The recommended soil is well-drained, even poor and dry. Water the root ball before planting and ensure that water can drain after planting. During establishment, check the 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 1 m (3 ft) to organize this plant's space in the garden. The indicated height of 50 cm (1.6 ft) helps choose its position relative to neighboring plants. Maintain access to the base to weed, check moisture, and remove damaged parts. Associate this variety with plants whose light and water needs are compatible. If you are considering a container, first check that its volume and drainage are suitable for root development. Roots in pots are more exposed to cold than those planted in the ground.