A genus of small, hardy, deciduous shrubs from around the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, with the greatest concentration in east Asia. The herbaceous species that used to be included in the genus have now been separated out as Filipendula and Aruncus. The remaining shrubby ones are characterised by have arching branches that can be packed with masses of white or creamy flowers.

Spiraea japonica 'Odessa' has cream and pink variegations to its green leaves, and clusters of strong deep rosy-pink flowers, produced in late summer.