Japanese Spirea

About this plant

Spiraea japonica 'Magic Carpet' lives up to its name, unfolding a magical display of color throughout the growing season. New growth emerges a brilliant, fiery red, maturing to a rich gold with coppery tips, creating a dynamic tapestry of hues. From late spring into summer, clusters of charming, rosy-pink flowers emerge, providing a delightful contrast to the colorful foliage. This compact shrub offers year-round interest and an easy-care nature, making it a favorite for borders, mass plantings, or as a vibrant accent. Its tidy, mounding habit and exceptional color make 'Magic Carpet' an ideal choice for adding a touch of sophistication and enduring beauty to your garden.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Easily maintained, this spirea benefits from an annual pruning in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain its attractive shape. Deadhead spent flowers for a tidier appearance, though it's not strictly necessary. Fertilize in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.