Meadowsweet
Spiraea alba
Last reviewed: June 2026
Spiraea alba (Meadowsweet) is a native deciduous shrub found across eastern and midwestern North America, blooming with white flower clusters from June through August and attracting diverse pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Meadowsweet as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CT, DE, IA, IL and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles, flies
Meadowsweet is a medium-sized native shrub that produces clusters of small white flowers from June through August. This deciduous plant grows in a naturally rounded form and tolerates partial shade conditions well, making it versatile for various garden locations.
Growing Meadowsweet
Grow Meadowsweet in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Meadowsweet is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- May look bare in winter as deciduous shrub
Wildlife value
The long blooming period attracts a diverse range of pollinators including bees, butterflies, beetles, and flies. This makes it an excellent choice for supporting local pollinator populations throughout the summer months.
Common questions
- When does Spiraea alba bloom?
- Spiraea alba typically blooms from June through August, producing clusters of small white flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Meadowsweet?
- Spiraea alba attracts a diverse range of pollinators including bees, butterflies, beetles, and flies, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations.
- Where is Spiraea alba native?
- Meadowsweet is native to much of eastern and midwestern North America, from Maine south to North Carolina and west to North Dakota, South Dakota, and Missouri.
- What growing conditions does Meadowsweet prefer?
- Spiraea alba grows well in full sun to partial shade and prefers medium to high moisture conditions, making it suitable for rain gardens and naturalized areas.
- Is Meadowsweet toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Meadowsweet as toxic to livestock.
- Is Meadowsweet HOA-friendly?
- Meadowsweet is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Meadowsweet? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz