DNRC Montana Conservation Seedling Nursery
Birchleaf Spiraea
Birchleaf Spiraea
Out of stock
*ORDERING QUANTITIES - our seedlings are sold in bulk*
10 - 27 cubic inch (ci) seedlings are sold in bundles of 24 (1 unit = 24 seedlings)
100 & 175 cubic inch (ci) seedlings are sold in bundles of 9 (1 unit = 9 seedlings)
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Spiraea betulifolia
Native Range: Western North America including Montana, the northern Rockies, Pacific Northwest and into British Columbia and Alberta
Natural Habitat: Montane slopes, open forests, meadows, rocky hillsides, and well‑drained subalpine sites
Foliage / Flowers: Deciduous shrub typically 1-3 ft tall. Leaves are birch‑like, oval to wedge shaped with fine serrations. Dense clusters of small white flowers appear in late spring to early summer.
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Growth Rate: Moderate
20-year Height: 1-3 ft
Elevation Range: 2,500-8,000 ft depending on climate
Cold Hardiness: USDA Zones 3 to 7
Fire Tolerance: Moderate, often resprouts from the root crown after fire
Wind Tolerance: High
Soil Preference: Well‑drained rocky or loamy soils, tolerates coarse substrates and shallow mountain soils
Alkali / Saline Soil Tolerance: Low
Life Span: Often 20-40 years
Minimum Annual Precip: Performs best with 16-30 in of annual moisture
Drought Tolerance: Medium once established
Windbreak Spacing: 2-4 ft for low shrub borders or native plantings
Potential Pests / Disease: Occasional aphids, leaf spot or mildew
Deer Resistance: Moderate, may be browsed lightly but not highly preferred
Wildlife Value:
- Flowers attract bees, flies, beetles and butterflies
- Supports insect populations used by nesting birds
- Dense structure offers cover for small mammals and birds
- Provides nectar resources in montane and subalpine habitats
