Spiraea betulifolia 'Tor Gold'

Tor Gold Birchleaf Spirea

Family: Rosaceae
Height: 2 ft to 3 ft
Width: 2 ft to 3 ft
Flower color: Dense clusters of small white flowers forming rounded flat-topped heads
Foliage color: Bright golden yellow leaves aging to soft yellow green with fine serration
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun to light shade
Water: Moderate; prefers well drained soil and tolerates some dryness once established
Maintenance: Low; prune after flowering to maintain compact shape and encourage fresh growth
Growing zone: USDA zones 3 to 8
Wildlife: Pollinators attracted to nectar rich flowers and occasional bird interest

About this plant

Spiraea betulifolia 'Tor Gold' produces dense, flat-topped clusters of small white flowers in late spring to early summer, creating a soft, cloud-like display across the plant. Rounded, birch-like leaves emerge bright golden-yellow, gradually softening to a warm chartreuse while maintaining a clean, finely textured appearance. The foliage forms a compact, layered framework that highlights the abundant flower clusters, which sit just above the leaves and draw pollinators during the bloom period.

Originating from a species native to northern Asia and parts of North America, this cultivar reflects selection for luminous foliage color and tidy growth. It is well suited to borders, mass plantings, and low hedging, where its seasonal color shifts and spring flowering provide structure and visual continuity.

Works well in

Sun Gardens · Cottage Gardens · Borders · Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Peonies · Alpine mint bush · Wallflower · Pampas grass · Stonecrop · Manzanita

Design tip

Carry ‘Tor Gold’ through a planting as a repeating ribbon of golden foliage, using its color to visually connect shrubs and perennials that bloom at different times. Even after its white flowers fade, the warm chartreuse leaves maintain that continuity through the growing season.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.