Bridewort (Spiraea salicifolia)

Family: Rosaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Spiraea salicifolia is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in vitamin C. — Young leaves - cooked.; Rich in vitamin C.

Habitat & North American Range

Wet boggy places in the mountains of N. Japan. More or less naturalized in woods in Wales and N. England. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)