Double Play Candy Corn Spirea

Double Play Candy Corn Spirea lives up to its sweet name with foliage that shifts through a vivid palette all season long. New growth emerges bright red in spring, softens to golden yellow, and stays lively with orange flushes through the growing season. In spring and summer, clusters of rich, purple flowers rise above the colorful foliage for a playful and eye-catching contrast. This dwarf shrub stays tidy at just 2 feet tall and wide, making it perfect for borders, foundation plantings, or containers. 

• Deciduous shrub
• Moderate growth rate with compact, mounded form
• Multicolor foliage: red, yellow, and orange tones
• Pinkish Purple flowers in spring and summer
• Great for small spaces and bold borders

For best results, plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8, Double Play Candy Corn Spirea delivers season-long color and texture without the hassle - just plant it, and enjoy the show.

Maintenance

Double Play Candy Corn Spirea thrives in Texas landscapes, offering abundant blooms and vibrant colors. Here are some guidelines to help it look its best:

• Watering: Water consistently during the first growing season to encourage strong root development. Once established, Double Play Candy Corn Spirea is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods, especially in hot climates. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to remain soggy, which can lead to root rot.
• Pruning: Prune lightly in late spring or immediately after flowering to maintain compact, tidy shape. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches and trim overly long shoots. Avoid late-summer pruning, as it may reduce next season’s flower production.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy foliage and vibrant blooms. Over-fertilizing with high nitrogen can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers. 
• Mulching: A 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base helps retain moisture, moderate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch a few inches away from the crown to prevent rot or fungal issues. Refresh mulch annually.
• Winter Care: Double Play Candy Corn Spirea can tolerate typical winter conditions in these zones. Mulching around the root zone provides extra insulation, and in areas with heavy snow or ice, gently shaking off snow prevents branch breakage.

Common Issues and How to Take Care of Them

• Powdery Mildew: White, powdery growth may appear in humid conditions or on densely packed plants. Improve airflow, water at the base, and prune overcrowded branches. Fungicides may be used if infections persist.
• Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can distort new growth and produce sticky honeydew. Treat infestations with water sprays, insecticidal soap, or horticultural oil.
• Leaf Spot: Fungal leaf spots may appear as brown or black blemishes. Remove affected foliage and maintain proper spacing to improve airflow and reduce recurrence.
• Root Rot: Occurs in poorly drained soil or if overwatered. Ensure proper site selection and avoid standing water.
• Spider Mites: These pests thrive in hot, dry weather, causing stippling or bronzing of leaves. Increase humidity through occasional watering and treat infestations with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.