There's so much hype about native plants. And there's groups that exist that want to make a profit off them. I get it. I understand the value of native plants. I'm a member of the Invasive species group with NYSDEC. I loathe some non-native invasive species as they take all my time eradicating them organically. English Ivy & Asiatic bittersweet are 2 dreadful specimens. (My back and aching hands tell their story) But come on, it's NOT all that cut and dry. There are countless non-native species originally from other countries that have adapted to North America. And they are perfect for a back yard specimen; and they don't compete, don't invade, don't have allelopathic features. Look into the old fashioned tried & true. Ask an elderly gardener what has worked for them for 60 - 90 years. I had one in my first home that was built in 1950 & this one built in 1929. Every good quality exists in the Spiraea cantoniensis, or Bridal-wreath Spiraea. It's a deciduous perennial shrub typically grown as an ornamental feature in gardens.

The plant can reach a height of 6 - 8 feet, tends to be twiggy and spreading into a fountain-like form, and displays frothy, pompom-like clusters of snow-white flowers along the terminal of arching branches. The bush blooms in May in its native China; hence the common name, May Bush.

Bridal-wreath Spiraea is a hardy plant that is drought and heat tolerant, slightly salt tolerant, and seldom damaged by deer. The plant is easily transplanted, grows rapidly, and will often require pruning, which should be done after the plant has completed flowering. It grows in a range of soil types with the exception of wet soil and produces new stems from the base of the plant. It is best grown in cooler climates with protection from the hot afternoon sun as that can cause leaf burn. The flowers attract butterflies.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems -this plant is relatively pest and disease-free. It's been growing here for 90 years. I welcome the white cascading graceful branches that burst into bloom right after it's neighbor, the Quince shrub, stops blooming it's apricot colored petals. Another oldy but goodie. The old time gardeners often know what's best.

Picture taken on May 18th 2021 in my garden. Linda McParland.