Northern Lights color on one shrub, with foliage that emerges red, matures to yellow, then settles into fresh green. Spiraea japonica 'Empire Northern Lights' (Japanese Spirea 'Empire® Northern Lights™') forms a compact, mounded plant that looks tidy in mixed borders, foundation beds, and mass plantings.
Give your plant full sun for the strongest foliage color, though it will also perform in part shade. Expect a mature size around 36-48 inches tall with a spread of about 36-48 inches. In late spring, clusters of soft pink flowers add another layer of color, and you may see additional bloom later in the season. Hardy in USDA Zones 4-9, it is a dependable deciduous shrub for many climates.
Plant in well-drained soil and water regularly during the first growing season to help it establish a strong root system. After establishment, keep moisture consistent during extended heat or drought. For routine maintenance, remove spent flower clusters to encourage a neat appearance, and prune as needed in late winter to early spring to shape the mound and promote fresh growth.