Deutzia

Deutzia is a member of the hydrangea family (Hydrangeaceae), and like hydrangeas, they are dense, deciduous, flowering shrubs. The genus is found in Mexico and Asia, from Pakistan, across the Himalayas, to East Asia, Vietnam and the Philippines. The genus name, Deutzia, honors a Dutch amateur botanist from the 1700s, John van der Deutz. There are 68 species of Deutzia and many hybrids and cultivars. Some species and cultivars may have been traded under incorrect names and have a confusing horticultural history. 

The shrub prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soils. It tolerates most soil types and becomes more drought-tolerant once it is established. Although the plant is tolerant of partial shade, flowering is better and showier in full sun. In warm southern climates, most of these shrubs would benefit from afternoon shade. Pruning may be required every couple of years and is best done immediately after the flowers have faded. When pruning, keep in mind that the plant's blossoms will appear on old growth. Deutzia is propagated by woody stem cuttings. 

Deutzias go unnoticed most of the year, but for a few weeks in May, Deutzia dazzles as a striking plant covered in showy white or pinkish flowers borne on upright panicles. Depending on the species or hybrid, they can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide or maybe more compact 1 to 2 feet tall and wide. Some of the species have exfoliating or peeling bark. The leaves are generally green, simple, lanceolate to ovate with rounded bases and pointed tips, and are sparsely hairy. The green leaves may be papery, rough, or soft depending on the species. Most of them blossom in the spring with abundant clusters of white or occasionally pink flowers. Each flower is less than 1-inch in diameter, five-petaled, and star-shaped in shades of white or pink. They are arranged in 3 to 6-inch panicles along the branches. Fruit capsules follow after the flowers fade. Most of them have insignificant fall colors except for Yuki Cherry Blossom Deutzia. Deutzias are seldom bothered by deer. Hummingbirds are attracted to the fragrant flowers in the spring. 

Consider a species of Deutzia for a garden border, foundation planting, or hedge. The compact species would add beauty as an accent for a patio garden or container. Mass plantings along a slope or bank would add beautiful spring flowers and lush green foliage to the landscape.

Quick ID Hints

• exfoliating or peeling bark on some species
• reddish-brown stems
• simple, lanceolate to ovate, green leaves
• clusters of five-petaled, star-shaped flowers of white and occasionally pink
• tiny fruit capsule following the blooms

Insects, Diseases, and Other Problems: Deutzia is generally pest and disease-free, but aphids and leaf spots may occur. Shrubs may need some protection for late spring frost and cold winters to prevent tip dieback.