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Key characteristics

Family: Rosaceae
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Width: 2 to 3 feet
Flower color: White, in dense clusters
Foliage color: Dark green leaves with a glossy appearance
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Prefers full sun
Water: Moderate to low
Maintenance: Low, prune to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA Zones 2 to 7
Wildlife: Attracts bees and butterflies

Shrubs

Spiraea betulifolia ‘Tor’

Tor Spirea

Spiraea betulifolia 'Tor' is a deciduous shrub known for its abundant clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. These delicate blooms are held in dense, rounded clusters, creating a soft, cloud-like effect against the plant's dark green, finely textured foliage. As the flowers fade, the plant's leaves turn vibrant shades of red and orange in the fall, adding seasonal interest.

Light

Prefers full sun

Water

Moderate to low

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Slopes & Banks
Borders
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Irises · Italian buckthorn · Sneezeweed · Fountain grass · Rock cress · Flowering quince

Design tip

Plant ‘Tor’ in broad drifts rather than as isolated specimens to emphasize its naturally rounded habit and cloud-like clusters of white flowers. As summer gives way to fall, the same planting shifts character as the foliage develops warm red and orange tones.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)