Spiraea tomentosa (steeplebush)

Steeplebush or hardhack is a deciduous flowering shrub that blooms in summer. It is mound-shaped and has a suckering habit, growing 2–4' tall with a slightly larger spread. Tiny pink to rose-purple flowers grow in dense, narrow, steeple-shaped, terminal spikes (4–8" long) from mid-summer to early autumn, and are followed by small, dry, brown fruit. Plant in sun in wet, moderately acid soils. 

Steeplebush is native to eastern North America. It is found in wet meadows and marshes. Many bees and butterflies visit the flowers. Host plant for Columbia silkmoth. 

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)  

Photo by Kathy Thornton