Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Spirea Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🌼
Add to dictionary

spirea

[ˈspaɪrɪə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

botanical term

Spirea is a genus of flowering plants in the Rosaceae family, commonly known for their attractive blooms and ornamental qualities. These plants are typically deciduous shrubs that produce clusters of small, white or pink flowers, often in late spring to early summer. They are popular in gardens and landscapes due to their hardiness and the beauty they bring to any setting.

Synonyms

bridal wreath, meadowsweet, spiraea.

Examples of usage

  • The spirea bushes bloomed beautifully in the garden.
  • I planted spirea to add color to my landscape.
  • The spirea in full bloom attracts many bees and butterflies.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Gardening

  • These plants are often used in landscaping for their hardiness and ability to thrive in various soil types.
  • Due to their long blooming season, spirea is a favorite among gardeners looking for colorful spring and summer displays.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, spirea flowers symbolize youth and beauty due to their delicate appearance.
  • Traditional herbal medicine has utilized parts of spirea for their potential health benefits, particularly in teas.

Ecology

  • Spirea species provide important nectar for pollinators, making them a vital part of a healthy garden ecosystem.
  • Even after blooming, the structure of spirea contributes to wildlife habitats, offering shelter for various creatures.

Pop Culture

  • In some artistic representations, spirea's graceful forms have inspired paintings and garden designs throughout history.
  • Spirea often appears in garden-related television shows, highlighting its ease of care and beauty.

Origin of 'spirea'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'spirea' comes from the Greek word 'speira', meaning 'to coil', referring to the curled nature of some of its branches.
  • Spirea is part of the Rosaceae family, which includes roses and apples, linking it to many beloved flowering plants.

The term 'spirea' is derived from the name of the Greek word 'speiraia', which refers to a type of willow found in Europe. This name was then Latinized in botany to characterize the plant's ornamental features. The Rosaceae family, which includes spirea, boasts several hundred genera and thousands of species, highlighting the extensive diversity of plants within this family. Historically, spirea plants have been used in traditional medicine and as ornamental shrubs as far back as the 18th century, especially in Europe and Asia. Today, various cultivars have been developed, showcasing flowers in a range of colors and sizes, catering to landscaping and horticultural demands worldwide.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,517, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.