Plant identification

Q Can you tell me the name of this beautiful shrub? TIM HAYCOCK, BY EMAIL

A This is a spiraea, probably Spiraea vanhouttei, which is also known as bridal wreath. A hardy, free-flowering shrub that’s smothered with white flowers from late spring to early summer, it grows in most soils and flowers best in full sun. Remove some of the oldest stems after flowering to make room for new growth.