'Ogon' Spiraea (Mellow Yellow) (Spirea)
Spiraea thunbergii 'Ogon'
Flower: Clusters of white flowers
along the stems in the spring before the foliage emerges. Not the
showiest flowers for a Spirea.
Size: 3-5' in height and 3-5' in width. Very vigorous growth in the spring each season.
Foliage Color: Bright yellow or gold in the spring, fading to a yellow-green color in late summer. The thin leaves have a willow-like appearance. Reddish fall color. Mostly grown for the foliage color.
Hardiness Zones: 4-8. Summer is tough on most gold foliage deciduous plants in zone 7b and 8. Looks rather ragged by late summer. Probably best suited for zones 4-6.
Light Requirement: Full sun to part-shade. Part-shade is best in southern areas, because the foliage is susceptible to being scorched by direct summer sun.
Drought Tolerance: Moderate to High. Over watering 'Ogon' is certain death.
Notes: The bright yellow willow-like foliage is very nice on 'Ogon'. Great plant for planting in large groups. Tolerant of most soil types. This variety is also sold as 'Mellow Yellow' Spiraea. This is one of those varieties that I see in the spring and say 'Wow', then see again in August and say 'Ouch'. Probably best suited as an annual in containers.