Double Play® Candy Corn® Spiraea

Planting Double Play® Candy Corn® Spiraea

Choose a location with full sun (6+ hours) for the best foliage color, though it tolerates light shade. It grows well in average, well-drained soil.

• Dig a hole 2–3 times wider than the root ball and the same depth as the container.
• Remove the shrub from its pot and gently loosen circling roots.
• Place the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil.
• Backfill with the native soil, firming gently to remove air pockets.
• Water slowly and deeply immediately after planting until the root ball and surrounding soil are thoroughly soaked.
• Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the plant, keeping it a few inches away from the stems.

Watering & Care

• Weeks 1–2: Water every 2–3 days if there is no significant rainfall.
• Weeks 3–12: Water once or twice a week, giving enough water to moisten the soil 8–10 inches deep.
• After establishment (about 1 year): Water during extended dry periods.
• Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if desired.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape. Since it blooms on new wood, pruning won't reduce flowering.

Pollination & Harvest

This spiraea attracts bees and butterflies but does not require cross-pollination. It is an ornamental shrub and has no harvestable fruit.

Container Planting

Use a container at least 18–20 inches wide with drainage holes. Fill with a quality potting mix, not garden soil. Water whenever the top 1–2 inches of soil become dry, as containers dry out faster than garden beds. Fertilize lightly each spring and protect the roots from extreme winter cold in very cold climates.

Double Play® Candy Corn® Spiraea FAQs

• 1. What makes Double Play® Candy Corn® Spiraea different from other spiraea?
  Double Play® Candy Corn® Spiraea stands out for its constantly changing foliage. New leaves emerge bright candy apple red, mature to vibrant yellow, and then develop rich orange tones as the season progresses. Unlike many spiraea varieties grown mainly for their flowers, this compact shrub delivers colorful interest from spring through fall while also producing clusters of purple flowers in late spring to early summer.
• 2. Does Double Play® Candy Corn® Spiraea attract pollinators?
  Yes. The purple flower clusters attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators when they bloom. While the colorful foliage is the main attraction, the flowers provide a valuable nectar source during the blooming season.
• 3. Does this spiraea produce fruit that can be harvested?
  No. Double Play® Candy Corn® Spiraea is grown as an ornamental landscape shrub rather than for edible fruit. It is valued for its vibrant foliage, colorful blooms, and easy-care nature.
• 4. Can Double Play® Candy Corn® Spiraea be grown in containers?
  Yes. Its naturally compact size makes it a great choice for large patio containers, decorative planters, and small-space gardens. Container-grown plants add long-lasting color to porches and patios, provided they receive plenty of sunlight and consistent watering.
• 5. How do I care for Double Play® Candy Corn® Spiraea?
  Plant it in full sun for the brightest foliage color, though it will tolerate light shade. It grows well in average, well-drained soil and becomes drought tolerant once established. Prune lightly after flowering if needed to maintain its shape, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy new growth and vibrant seasonal color.