The Candy Corn Spirea Companion Plant: A Colorful Addition to Your Garden

Are you looking for a colorful and easy-to-grow shrub that can add interest to your garden? Look no further than the Candy Corn Spirea, also known as 'Tricolor'. With its bright orange, yellow, and green foliage, this shrub is a stunning addition to any landscape.

But did you know that the Candy Corn Spirea also makes an excellent companion plant? In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of planting the Candy Corn Spirea alongside other plants, as well as some tips on how to care for this beautiful shrub.

The Benefits of Companion Planting

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together in a way that benefits both species. By choosing the right companion plants, you can help protect your crops from pests and diseases, improve soil quality, and even enhance flavor.

When it comes to the Candy Corn Spirea, there are a few key benefits to planting it alongside other species:

1. Color Contrast

One of the main benefits of planting the Candy Corn Spirea as a companion plant is its striking color contrast. The bright orange and yellow leaves of the Candy Corn Spirea can create a beautiful backdrop for other plants with greens, blues or purples. This vibrant color combination can add visual interest and excitement to your garden.

2. Pest Control

The Candy Corn Spirea is known to repel certain pests, such as aphids and spider mites. By planting it alongside other plants, you can help protect your entire garden from these common pests.

3. Soil Improvement

The Candy Corn Spirea is a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means that it can help improve soil quality by adding nitrogen back into the soil. By growing it alongside other plants, you can help enrich the soil for all species in your garden.

Choosing Companion Plants for the Candy Corn Spirea

When choosing companion plants for the Candy Corn Spirea, it's important to consider both the visual appeal of the plants and their compatibility with the shrub. Here are some options to consider:

1. Blue Fescue Grass

Blue fescue grass is a cool-season ornamental grass that pairs well with the warm hues of the Candy Corn Spirea. The fine texture of the grass also provides a nice contrast to the spirea's broad leaves.

2. Purple Coneflower

Purple coneflower is a perennial flower that blooms in midsummer. The purple petals complement the orange and yellow foliage of the Candy Corn Spirea, creating a colorful and eye-catching display.

3. Russian Sage

Russian sage is a drought-tolerant herbaceous perennial that features delicate blue-gray foliage and tall spikes of lavender-blue flowers. It can add height and texture to a garden bed and looks great when paired with the bright colors of the Candy Corn Spirea.

Caring for the Candy Corn Spirea

The Candy Corn Spirea is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:

1. Planting and Watering

The Candy Corn Spirea prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in the spring or fall, and watered regularly until it is established.

2. Pruning

Prune the Candy Corn Spirea in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. This will help shape the plant and encourage healthy growth.

3. Fertilizing

The Candy Corn Spirea does not require much fertilization, but a light application of fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.

Candy Corn Spirea Companion Plant FAQs

1. Can the Candy Corn Spirea be grown in containers?

Yes, the Candy Corn Spirea can be grown in containers. Just make sure the container has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the root system.

2. How often should I water my Candy Corn Spirea?

Water your Candy Corn Spirea regularly until it is established, and then reduce watering to once or twice a week. During periods of drought, you may need to water more frequently.

3. How tall does the Candy Corn Spirea grow?

The Candy Corn Spirea can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide, making it a great choice for smaller gardens or as an accent plant.

4. Does the Candy Corn Spirea attract bees?

Yes, the Candy Corn Spirea is attractive to bees and other pollinators. It can be a great addition to a pollinator garden.

5. When is the best time to plant the Candy Corn Spirea?

The best time to plant the Candy Corn Spirea is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are cooler and there is more moisture in the soil.



The Candy Corn Spirea is a versatile and beautiful shrub that can add color and interest to any garden. By planting it alongside other species as a companion plant, you can take advantage of its pest-repellent and soil-improving properties, while also creating a visually stunning display. With proper care and maintenance, your Candy Corn Spirea will thrive for years to come.