Deutzia Deutzia crenata

Deutzia is a dense, deciduous, flowering shrub that grows to a height of 3 to 9 feet. It has papery green leaves with clusters of white star-shaped flowers that bloom in the spring. The shrub is a member of the Hydrangeaceae or hydrangea family

Deutzia is a native of Japan and may be found on the edges of forests and cliffs. The genus name, Deutzia, honors a Dutch botanist from the 1700s, Johan van der Deutz. There are more than 60 species of Deutzia. Some species and cultivars may have been sold or traded under incorrect names. A study was completed by William G. Hembree, Thomas Ranney, Nathan P. Lynch, and Brian E. Jackson at North Carolina State University to correct and update the species names for the cultivars studied. The study was published in the Journal of American Society for Horticultural Science and is entitled, "Identification, Genome Sizes and Ploidy of Deutzia."

Plants of this genus prefer fertile, moist, and well-drained soils. They are tolerant of most soil types and are usually drought tolerant once established. They flower best in full sun but do tolerate partial shade. If pruning is required, it is best done immediately after blooming. The shrub may be propagated by stem cuttings or seeds. This plant is seldom damaged by deer. 

The stems of this shrub are reddish-brown. The leaves are simple, lanceolate, and slightly hairy. The fragrant white flowers bloom in abundance and are followed by tiny fruit capsules.

Deutzia is a low-maintenance shrub and would be a lovely addition as a foundation planting, border, or hedgerow.

Seasons of interest:

Bloom:  Spring              Foliage:  Spring and Summer

Quick ID Hints:

• reddish-brown stems
• simple, lance to ovate shaped, green leaves measuring 2 to 3 inches long and up to 1-inch wide
• clusters of five-petalled, star-shaped, white flowers
• tiny fruit capsule follows the blooms

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Deutzia is generally pest and disease-free, but aphids and leaf spots may occur.