Sorbaria sorbifolia ‘Sem’ - Compact False Spirea

Sorbaria sorbifolia ‘Sem’ (False Spirea) is a compact, colour-changing shrub that brings movement and interest throughout the seasons. Its finely divided, fern-like foliage emerges in warm shades of copper and orange, softens to fresh green in summer, and often picks up golden tones before autumn.

In early to mid-summer, it produces airy plumes of creamy white flowers that add lightness and contrast above the foliage. A more controlled and compact form than the species, ‘Sem’ is ideal for smaller gardens, borders, or containers where you want texture without the spread.

Plant Care

Position: full sun to part shade, in moist but well-drained soil – tolerant of most soil types

Hardiness: fully hardy in the UK (down to -20°C)

Hot Tips: spreads by suckers – great for filling space or naturalising, but may need root control in smaller gardens. Cut back hard in early spring to encourage fresh, colourful growth. Low maintenance and tough as nails.