Hardhack (Steeplebush) - Spiraea tomentosa

Features: Bees, beetles, moths and butterflies are attracted to the vertical, pink blossoms which produce abundant pollen and minimal nectar. This modest sized shrub is an important home for moth caterpillars too. The stems are tough, which is why this shrub is called Hardhack. It is a nice alternative to non-native Spiraeas.

Light: full sun

Soil: moist to wet

Height: 2 to 3 ft.

Width: 2 ft.

Blooms: summer

Flower color: pink

Fall color: yellow orange

See more information and photos at: Illinois Wildflowers and USDA Plants Database

Photo: 1 Sara Hollerich, USFWS/flickr (cropped); 2 Illinois Wildflowers