By Kate Chinnick

Deutzia gracilis “Nikko”

Native to Japan, related to the Philadelphus but smaller
Small low spreading deciduous shrub, 60cm tall & up to 1.2m wide
Pale green foliage often turns burgundy before shedding
Flowers are starry and white in summer in spikes
Prefers a sheltered site in semi shade
Good rock garden plant
Often puts down roots when it spreads
Propagate from cuttings in late spring
Other larger Deutzias are also good shrubs