Spirea ‘Neon Flash’

Spirea 'Neon Flash' in bloom.

* Common name: Spirea ‘Neon Flash’

* Botanical name: Spirea x bumalda ‘Neon Flash’

* What it is: A drought-tough, trouble-free, rounded flowering shrub that’s covered with small rosy-pink flower clusters in early summer and more sporadically in early fall. Light green leaves.

* Size: 3 feet tall by 4 feet wide.

* Where to use: Excellent sunny foundation plant (south or west exposures) or as a low, colorful hedge along a driveway, walk or border where you don’t need taller screening. Best in full sun.

* Care: Shear back to 8 to 12 inches at end of each winter. Give light trim after first round of flowers fade to encourage repeat bloom. No water needed after first season. Annual spring scattering of balanced organic granular fertilizer is optional.

* Great partner: Hardy geranium ‘Rozanne’ or ‘Jolly Bee’ or purple salvia such as ‘May Night,’ ‘Lubeca’ or ‘Marcus.’