WHAT: This deciduous shrub, the Ogon variety of golden Thunberg’s spirea, is early flowering, with a wispy growth habit.
WHY PLANT IT: In late March and early April, before its leaves have unfurled, its slender branches are covered with dazzling white flower clusters.
Its feathery leaves emerge in gold — Ogon means gold in Japanese — and gradually change to bright green, creating a pleasing contrast.
In autumn, its leaves turn bright orange and remain on the plant almost until Christmas.
WHERE: Ogon prefers full sun, but will adapt to part sun. It prefers moist, well-drained soil.
HOW: Underplant it with snowdrops and other spring-flowering bulbs. It can be pruned after it finishes blooming in spring.
ACTUAL SIZE: It grows to about 5 feet tall and wide.
LEARN MORE: See www.greatplantpicks.org.
Source: Great Plant Picks
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