Indiana native plant of the month - november
As we watch lawns settle in for the cooler months and say goodbye to summer’s buzz, October’s featured native plant keeps the color going a little longer.
Steeplebush (Spirea tomentosa)
Steeplebush is a beautiful native shrub that thrives in the kinds of moist areas we often see around Indiana — along streams, pond edges, or even in rain gardens. From mid-summer through early fall, it sends up tall spikes of rosy-pink blooms that look like nature’s version of fireworks.
It’s a favorite for pollinators like butterflies and native bees, and as the blooms fade, birds enjoy its seed heads later in the season. The best part? Steeplebush is low-maintenance and naturally resistant to deer, rabbits, and poor soil. It’s a great choice for adding lasting color and ecological value to your property — especially if you’re aiming to support local wildlife while keeping your landscape beautiful.
Description
Steeplebush has a few key identifying traits such as:
Tall, cone-shaped clusters of pink flowers (4”–8” long)
Oblong, toothed leaves with a soft, fuzzy underside
Grows 2’–4’ tall with a naturally upright habit
Forms attractive thickets over time, great for naturalizing wet areas
Fun Fact
Steeplebush gets its name from its flower spikes that resemble little steeples! It’s closely related to Meadowsweet, which has white blooms instead of pink. Historically, it was even used by Native Americans for its astringent properties and as a natural remedy for minor ailments.
