Spiraea Magic Carpet, scientifically known as Spiraea japonica 'Magic Carpet', is a deciduous flowering shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a compact, mounded shrub that typically reaches a height of around 18-24 inches and spreads up to 3 feet wide. This makes it a perfect choice for small gardens or container planting. This cultivar of Spiraea japonica is admired for its vibrant and colorful foliage. The leaves emerge in spring with a reddish-bronze hue, which gradually matures into a bright yellow-green color during the summer months. In autumn, the foliage turns an attractive combination of red, orange, and purple, adding a striking appeal to the landscape.
In autumn, the foliage turns an attractive combination of red, orange, and purple, adding a striking appeal to the landscape. Magic Carpet produces clusters of delicate pink flowers during the summer, which provide a beautiful contrast against its colorful foliage. The small flowers are held in flat-topped clusters, known as umbels, and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Darren Leon Steele
With Dorene, Shawn and Cedric by his side Darren passed away peacefully at RJH in Victoria.
Darren was born in Victoria and was a “Lifer” At Glenlyon Norfolk School where he had many friends. After school he studied Commercial Real Estate in Seattle and then became a licensed realtor in Victoria. He sold his first house the day after he received his license. As Darren’s interests changed and he discovered his true passion was in the Securities Investment business he obtained a Bachelor of Business Degree at Strayer University in Washington D.C. He also completed the initial Canadian Security Course and was studying to complete the final tests.
Darren was exceptionally smart, an avid reader and enjoyed analyzing world events and the stock market. He enjoyed traveling and exploring museums. So he obtained a travel and work visa for Europe and visited family in South Africa.
Darren was predeceased by his paternal grandfather Leo Steele (1974) and grandmother Anna Steele (1990) and grandmother Jean Cridland (2008) He is survived by his parents, Cedric and Dorene, his brother Shawn, sister- in- law Rebecca and his niece, Charlotte. His uncle Ron Cridland, aunt Cindy, cousins John, Alicia, (Dave) and Leslie. Also his extended family great aunt Margaret Isherwood, Jim (Marilyn) Ryan (Marnie) Allison, Jack Isherwood, Taylor (Donna) Tyson, Ted, Kody, Katie Isherwood. His great uncle Bob (Marylin) Ward, cousins John, Steve and Jeff.
Thanks to the Doctors, Nurses, Hospice Doctors and Cliff at 3N RJH Victoria.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday 1 August 2015 at McCall’s Downtown, Johnson & Vancouver Streets, Victoria B.C.
In lieu of flowers a donation to Victoria Hospice would be appreciated or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
- Dominique Chapheau
dear Cedric and Dorene,
As I am away in France,I just heard of your tragic loss.
As a father I can only imagine the pain you must be going thru.
Please accept my deep condolences in this very difficult moment in your life.
I
- Patricia Mamic
Cedric and Dorene, I was so sorry to hear the sad news. Having two sons of my own, I can not imagine the depth of grief you must be feeling. Your family is in my prayers for strength and comfort at this time. I pray also that you will receive encouragement from the circle of love and support coming your way from family and friends. May the Lord fill you wil a spirit of peace and gratitude when reflecting on the past joys you have shared together.
- Ann Brydon and Stew Vinnels
Dear Dorene, Cedric, Shawn and Rebecca, What a lovely service on Saturday! And comforting to see all the pictures of Darren. We fondly remember his visits to the lake with the gang and that never ending Grade 7 party at our house. Sincere condolences to your family,, Ann and Stew
- Roberta and Dennis McCarthy
Dorene, Cedric and Shawn – We extend our sincere condolences and hopes for peace to you on the passing of Darren. Thank you for expressing your thoughts and memories so well via the audio-visual messages. You and others who spoke gave us all a glimpse of Darren as a very impressive, personable and complicated young man – and of the strong family qualities that prevailed despite many challenges. Your family’s collective love and strength were, and remain, remarkable. Very special thoughts – Roberta and Dennis McCarthy
- Marg Rose
Dorene, Cedric and Shawn and family, The Steele family have been pillars of the community for years. In this sad loss of your son and brother, please take comfort knowing that many of us send healing thoughts and deepest condolences to bolster you now. The Board and staff of the United Way and beneficiaries of your generous hearts are silently at your sides. Take care.
- Roger Zwicky
Our sincere condolences goes out to Cedric, Doreen, Shaun and your families… As a parent, I can only imagine your loss of a dear son. Rus nou lekker boet!
- Doug and Glenna Enns
Dorene and Cedric, Today’s ceremony was a moving tribute to Darren. It’s hard to put into word the thoughts that come to mind over the loss of Darren. We express our condolences and wish you both future peace and happiness. Doug and Glenna
- Carol Brooks
Dear Cedric, Doreen, Shawn, Rebecca and family. I just returned from Darren’s service at McCall’s. I did not stay afterward because you had a lot of people who wanted to see you. The service was beautiful, explaining his life, his passion for life and his love of his family. It was truly inspiring to hear of his admiration and love for his family and his friends. My deepest sympathy and love to you all you. Carol
- The Lingwood Family
We send our deep sympathy to your family. You are part of our GNS web of memories. Darren was a vibrant member of Allan & Marissa’s class. May your family love give you strength through this awful time. Love, Aileen & Bob, Jeffrey & Marissa (Major), Allan & David Lingwood
- John & Deborah Williams
- Jim & Wendy Clapp
We send our very deepest condolences to you Cedric, Doreen & Shawn & family. In the very sad loss of your precious son Darren. We send our love, sympathy, & prayers at this time of deep sorrow. So very very sorrow.
- Dan and Karol Murphy
- Bob Brumby
Dorene&Cedric Steele I just read about the recent passing of your son Darren.
I wish to extend my deepest condolences to you and your family.
- Deborah Wright
Hello Cedric, so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I look back on the time I spent as a Co-Director at the GVCC with fond memories. Sometimes life throws us difficult curves with which we have to contend. Sincerely, Deborah
- Pat Bion
Cedric and Doreen I am so sorry to hear of your terrible loss. The lose of a child is a parent’s worse nightmare. Although I never met Darren all I have heard about him since his passing have been kind words and good thoughts. I hope that time will in some way heal your pain. Pat
- John and Carolyn Maysmith
Dorene, Cedric, Shawn and Family, We were so shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Darren. We remember him as a smiling, outgoing, personable young man and our fond memories through his friendship with our son Cam. We know there is no way to lessen the sorrow you feel at this time and our thoughts and deepest sympathy goes out to your family.
- Mary Haig-Brown
Shawn, i am very sorry to read of the death of your brother. It is a hard thing to loose someone who has been with you all your life. Please accept my sympathy. Mary Dorene, my heart goes out to you on the loss of your son. I am glad you were able to be with him as he set off on his journey. I am sure you set him free with love. I am thinking of you. Mary
- Heather Parker
To the Steele Family, I had the pleasure of meeting Darren many years ago through the Maysmith Family and some mutual friends. Darren was always smiling and had a quick witted comment that would make everyone laugh. I am saddened to hear he is no longer with us and am very sorry for your loss. Heather Parker
- Gord and Bea Peskett
Cedric, Dorene, Shawn, and family,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences. We hope that the happy and fond memories of Darren’s life will help to sustain you through this most difficult time, and that your large circle of friends will be a source of enduring support.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Gord, Bea, Michael, Brian
- Bob and Devi Jawl
Dear Doreen and Cedric: Thinking of you and sending our thoughts and prayers at this very sad time. So very sorry for your loss. Our condolences to you and your family.
I remember that I exchanged a few words with Darren at your house, long time ago.
I express my greatest condolences from Kobe Japan. Shinji
- Bob and Sylvia Lindahl
Sylvia and I wish to express our Condolences on the shocking news of learning of the loss of your son Darren. Hopefully you will find comfort in knowing that many others are feeling your sorrow. We pray the days ahead will bring you healing and peace.
- Kerri Gibson
Dear Dorene, Cedric and Shawn
I was so very sorry to hear of Darren’s passing. I had never met him but I can see from the notes above that he was a wonderful person and friend to so many. I hope your memories of him help you through this very sad time. Kerri
- Carol & Arnie Hamilton
Cedric, Dorene and Shawn – Our most heartfelt condolences on the loss of your son and brother Darren. May your strong circle of family and friends support you all. Darren will be loved and remembered by many. Hugs to you all.
- Carolynn and Victor Horton
Such a fun loving young lad, the whole ball team enjoyed his company. I can still hear the dugout chants, “Darren steal, Darren steal” and so our covert base stealing strategy was loudly broadcasted across the park for all to hear!
Our deepest sympathies to the family at this difficult time, may your feelings of sorrow and loss soon turn to happy memories. Victor Horton, baseball coach
- Andrew Scott-Moncrieff
I am terribly sorry to hear of Darren’s passing and my condolences go out to the entire Steele family. I had the privilege of knowing Darren at GNS and will always cherish those amazing memories. I remember his great laugh and the incredible generosity and hospitality he showed to all his friends. He will be deeply missed.
- Gordon Alexander
To Cedric, Doreen and Shawn I was distressed to read in Sundays paper about the passing of your son Darren Steele.
My contact with you all was mainly at Prospect Lake and I am sorry that that pretty golf course is winding up. A difficult year for you all. I just hope that the fact that many people support and are thinking of you will make your days easier to bear. My wife Peta joins with me in sending this message. Gordon Alexander
- Lindsay Kirke
I’m very sad to learn of Darren’s passing. I knew him when I was in high school, though we went to different schools. I remember going to Exeter Beach and having great times with him and our group of friends. Darren was easy to get along with, laid back, and really funny. I’m sorry for your loss.
Lindsay
- Lorne and Susan DeLarge
Cedric, Doreen and Shawn. We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Wishing you courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. Lorne and Susan DeLarge
- Margaret Bowes
Please accept our most heart felt condolences….we were so very sorry to hear about Darren…In my imaginings I see all the boys on the beach at Glenlyon, laughing and playing…life is so precious but the memories of your beloved son will endure. Margaret and Barry Bowes and family
Darren was my roommate briefly a year ago while I was in VGH after having a stroke. We were both having a pretty rough time of it and just wanted to go home. Finding a kindred spirit (beyond the fact that we were the only two patients on the ward not wearing diapers) made my time there much more bearable, we had read many of the same authors and shared interests in things like metaphysics and conspiracies, much of our time was spent in conversation. We accompanied each other on walks around the hospital corridors, each of us keeping an eye on the other in case of a stumble or fall, as we were both a bit unsteady. We even considered making an escape in our hospital pajamas and slippers but thought better of it.
I was very sad to read of his passing, my heart goes out to his family especially his mother Dorene, who I met, who was very warm and kind. Darren had a very interesting life from the sound of it, I wish his spirit well in his journey onward.
- Mercer, Derek and Pat
Doreen and Cedric: Our thoughts and prayers are with you, two very special people with whom we’ve “touched” along the way, and we hope you find comfort in knowing we care. Our very heartfelt condolences to you and family, Pat and Derek
- Ken Lane
In the coming months and years, may each moonrise bring you more peace, comforted by the memories of Darren that no one can steal. And in the coming weeks, may you be comforted by the outpouring of support. My condolences.
- Frank Finney
Cedric and Darlene,
Gerri and I send our sincere condolences. The death of your son Darren , so unexpected.
I imagine him as friendly and kind as his dad and as loving as his parents.
- Bob Wheaton
My heart goes out to you all. Losing a son or brother, well before his time, is hard to bear. My thoughts are with you and may your hearts all heal and his memories eventually bring back all those loving smiles. Bob
- Trevor Bowes
I am so very sorry to hear of Darren’s passing. Although I hadn’t seen him in many years, I have very fond memories of our time at school. He was in fact my first friend from our first day at Glenlyon. Such an important friendship and such wonderful childhood memories will always be cherished. My heartfelt condolences to Doreen, Cedric and Shawn
- Bob Glazier
Doreen and Cedric, I am so very very sorry to learn today of Darren’s passing and offer my heartfelt and humble, sincere, thoughts and condolences. I cannot imagine the depth of your loss, my heart goes out to you, Cedric, my dear and long standing friend, such an immense loss. Condolences, Bob
- Dr. Edward (Ted) and Mrs. Sharon Kardera
We were so sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
Ted and Sharon Kardera
- Jane Hall
Dear Dorene and Cedric… You both have been so kind to me over the years and I am so very saddened to hear of your loss. We lost Robin’s daughter, Andrea, who was about the same age as Darren, and it left a huge hole in our hearts. I know you will heal with time, and I will be thinking of you and wishing you happy memories. Love and best,,
Jane.
- Toni and Errol Collinson
Dear Doreen and Cedric
It is never meant that a child should precede his parents in death. Good memories will sustain you as you move forward.
Our condolences, Toni and Errol
- Gerald Pash
Doreen, Cedric and family So very sad for you when I read the notice. My words are so inadequate when we lose someone close. Still, my thoughts are with you and all those close. Bless, Gerry
- Brenda Simeoni
We were also very saddened to hear of Darren’s passing. We would like to extend our heartfelt sympathy to you all at this very difficult time. Brenda and Vic Simeoni and family.
- Heather Holmes
Cedric, Dorene and Shawn While they sat in the rear seat of my car transiting to preschool, Darren’s oversized expressive three year old grin including the joint stuttering with Marshall, is imbedded in my heart. Please accept my deepest condolences and know he was loved and treasured by many. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. May he rest in peace. Heather
- Lana Denoni
Doreen & Cedric& family
So sorry to hear of your son’s passing. I hope that you can take the memories of your son and keep
Them close to your hearts. My thoughts are with you all.
Lana Denoni
- Liz Bicknell
Dear Doreen, Cedric and Shawn. I was shocked to hear this very sad news. I have very fond memories of the laid back Darren playing with my sons as they were good friends at school. How do you even begin to explain this type of loss. We simply can’t. I hope the outpouring of love and support that you are receiving will somehow help to ease your pain. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Fondly. Liz Bicknell.
- Madeleine Humer
All our love to you Doreen, Cedric and Shawn, from your former neighbours at 3130. We are all so very sad to hear about Darren. Saskia, Patrick and I have such great memories of walking Prince, and visiting each other’s homes to swim and watch videos together. Darren was aways a very kind and gentle person, and he certainly will be missed. Hugs Madeleine
- kay barnett
Dear Cedric, Dorene and Shawn, oh my I was so shocked and saddened when Clayton informed me of Darren’s passing! i have moved back to Colorado and of course did not read about it in the paper. I so remember all the good times that Spence and Clayton shared with you two brothers Shawn and it saddens me so much that he left us way too soon. You are in our thoughts and prayers and thankfully Darren is relieved of his suffering. All the best, Kay Barnett (formerly Campbell)
- Jurgen Weyand
Doreen, Cedric and Shawn We are so sorry to hear about your loss. At this difficult time in your life, you are in our thoughts. Stay strong and know that many are sharing your pain. Angelika, Jurgen and Simone
Darren, Philipp, and I used to spend our Summers together at the Racquet Club, playing lots of squash and goofing around. Those are some of my happiest childhood memories. I remember we used to optimize our squash racquets with custom strings, grips, and paint jobs. One time, Darren wrapped the handle of his racquet in so much pink cushion grip that it ended up being thicker than a pop can! He couldn’t even hold it with one hand anymore -he had to play using two! Darren would do stuff like that all the time and get everyone laughing, and that’s the way I’ll always remember him: He laughed more and harder than anyone else I ever knew. He would laugh so hard that he’d fall to his knees and then curl up on the ground holding his sides, completely incapacitated. I’m sure that everyone who knew him knows exactly what I’m talking about. Doreen, Cedric, and Shawn, I’m so terribly sad to hear this news -I’ll cherish the fond memories of my friendship with Darren forever.
- Karin Hertel
Dear Steele family, I am still shocked by the news and my heart goes out to you. Our boys were good friends and spend much time together. I remember Darren as a nice and considerate boy, polite and smart. I am so very, very sorry for your loss.
Karin
Darren was my very best friend in elementary school. I will always cherish my memories of him, from little league baseball, to sleepovers playing Nintendo and watching late night TV, to running wild at the racquet club playing squash and tennis, and generally getting up to all sorts of trouble. I haven’t seen Darren since highschool but I can still hear his infectious laugh. He was such a smart, funny, gentle, and kind person. Doreen, Cedric, and Shawn, my heart goes out to you. I will miss you Darren.
- Kim Rollins
Doreen, Cedric and Shawn, I am deeply saddened to hear of Darren’s passing. I hope you find peace with your memories. You are in my thoughts. Sincerely,
Kim
- Zabin Somani
Shawn, I am so sorry for your loss. Sincere condolences to your family. I hope and pray that you will find peace in the cherished memories of your brother, and that they will always be a source of strength and comfort. Zabin
- Chris Cowell
Doreen, Cedric, Shawn and family. I was staggered to hear of Darrin’s passing. An amazing young man and friend who was taken from us all much too soon. Like many of us I remember the great times we shared at GNS and the ever ready smile that Darrin offered to us all. From parties to cruising to music we always had a great time and he was always able to bring a smile to our faces with his quick wit and charming personality. He will be missed! Thank you for all the good times and memories brother. Look down upon us and watch over us. Know that my prayers are with the Steele family.
- Stan Livingston
Cerdic, Doreen and family,
I was saddened to learn of Darren’s passing.
While I never knew him personally I can’t imagine the sorrow it must cause to lose a child and brother. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Stan
- Leanor Jolly Davidson
I’m so sorry for your loss of Darren. I remember him being in our pool on Grange Road with all his classmates from GNS–he will always be remembered for his happy and fun outlook on life. Leanor (Jolly) Davidson
- Russ Lazaruk & Hilary Groos
Cedric, Dorene, Shawn & family, We were shocked and deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Words are never enough at a time like this. Please accept our heartfelt condolences and know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Russ & Hilary
- Marc Dumais
Dear Cedric and family.; our deepest condolences for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Marc and Sandra
- Jane Wrinch
Best, Jane Wrinch
- Marshall Horne
Dorene, Cedric, and Shawn, Words are inadequate to express the sadness I feel over learning of Darren’s passing. I will always cherish the many memories that I have of him: our time together at GNS, Exeter Beach parties, and the frequent visits to the Steele household. Darren was a positive influence in my life, and a truly great friend. He will be missed dearly. The Steele family has always been there for me. If I can ever provide any assistance, please let me know. Marshall Horne
- Sharlene Law
Cedric, Dorene and Shawn. I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine how difficult this time is for you all – please know your family are in my thoughts. I feel fortunate to have met Darren and I know he will be missed. Sharlene
- Graeme Moore
Dareen was a great friend with a charming sense of humour. We had an amazing time exploring Victoria, Mexico, Las Vegas and childhood together. He had a way of bringing people together with laughter to enjoy the moment. I will always cherish our time together and am very sad to hear of his passing. I wish the Steele family best wishes during this challenging time.
- Michael and DianneGotto
Our thoughts are with you all during this sorrowful time. Words seem so inadequate. Heartfelt sympathy. Hugs.
- Tasma and Paul Lacroix
Dear Dorene, Cedric, Shawn and family….We are reeling with the news of your loss……Our thoughts are of Darren and the great times the Boys had at GNS, your home and our cottage………..fun , laughter and such healthy good times were had in abundance. At this difficult time may you find some comfort in knowing that we care …… Tasma and Tasman.
- Taylor Chen
- Suzanne Jolly
I am so very sorry to hear about Darren’s passing. Unfortunately, I have not seen him since our GNS days- so many of us have lost touch over the years. He was a very funny addition to my high school days, making us laugh even during the most boring of classes. I want to let you know that so many of us who graduated with him are thinking of you all and sending our deepest condolences during what must be a tremendously difficult time.
- Quentin Bregg
I am so sad to hear of Darren’s passing. Although I had not had much contact with him in later years, I remember fondly my time spent with him goofing around at his house in Uplands and playing with his dog Prince in the backyard. I always remember him as a kind friend. My thoughts are with his family.
Quentin
- Theresa and David Cowell
Doreen and Family,
Our hearts go out to you and your family. Our memories of Darren remember him as a smiling, humorous ,kind hearted young man with only the best to say of others.
Theresa and David Cowell
- dan parker and Maria Dominelli
- Charlotte Salomon
- Janet Evans
Cedric and Doreen
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of your son Darren. A life cut to short.
My thoughts are with you at this trying time.
Janet
- David Marshall
Dorene, Shawn and Cedric, My heart breaks for you. I appreciate that pain and heartache that you all feel but, like so many, feel useless. I offer my sincere prayers for each of you and my hope that you are able to hold memories of the good times in your hearts for many years to come. David
- Darryn Beuthin
So very sorry for your loss, far too soon. I remember fondly the good old days at GNS, taking the Integra and going for lunch or going to the gas station to get candy. As he said in his last message to me, “always your friend”, rest in peace – your South African boet.
- Stefan Hudson
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you in this difficult time. Love will carry you through. ~Stefan Hudson
I’m so sorry for your loss of Darren. I remember him being in our pool on Grange Road with all his classmates from GNS–he will always be remembered for his happy and fun outlook on life. Leanor (Jolly) Davidson
Apart from its stunning aesthetic appeal, Spiraea Magic Carpet is also known for its low-maintenance nature. It is a hardy shrub that tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, from well-drained to slightly clayey, and has a high resistance to diseases and pests. It also exhibits good tolerance to heat and drought once established. This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade, although it tends to produce the best foliage colors when planted in full sun. Regular pruning is recommended to maintain its compact habit and promote dense foliage. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the emergence of new growth. Spiraea Magic Carpet is a versatile shrub that can be used in various landscape settings. It works well as a border or edging plant, mass planting, or as a focal point in gardens and landscapes. It can also be grown in containers on patios or balconies. In conclusion, Spiraea Magic Carpet is a beautiful and easily maintained shrub that adds a splash of vibrant colors to any garden or landscape. Whether used as a border plant or a container specimen, its stunning foliage and charming blooms make it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers alike..
Reviews for "Spiraea Magic Carpet: A Low-Maintenance Solution for Problematic Areas"
1. John - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with the Spiraea Magic Carpet. Despite hearing great things about this plant, it just didn't live up to the hype. The colors were not as vibrant as I had expected, and the plant didn't seem to thrive in my garden. After a few weeks, it started developing yellow leaves and looked unhealthy. I tried different watering and lighting conditions, but nothing seemed to make a difference. I ended up replacing it with a different plant that thrived much better. Overall, I would not recommend the Spiraea Magic Carpet.
2. Sarah - 1 star - I have to say, I was extremely dissatisfied with the Spiraea Magic Carpet. Not only did it not meet my expectations in terms of appearance, but it also required a lot of maintenance. The plant constantly seemed to have yellowing leaves and was prone to pests, despite my best efforts to take care of it. I found it to be more trouble than it was worth, and I eventually gave up on trying to salvage it. I would not recommend this plant to anyone looking for a low-maintenance option for their garden.
3. Mark - 2 stars - The Spiraea Magic Carpet did not live up to its name for me. I was looking forward to a vibrant and colorful addition to my garden, but this plant fell short. The colors were dull and faded, and it didn't really add any visual interest to the area. Additionally, I found it difficult to prune and maintain. It had a tendency to grow in odd shapes and required frequent trimming to keep it in check. Overall, I was not satisfied with this plant and would not purchase it again.
4. Rachel - 2 stars - I was not impressed with the Spiraea Magic Carpet. The plant looked beautiful in the nursery, but it didn't fare well in my garden. It struggled to establish itself and never seemed to thrive. The leaves turned brown and fell off, and it just looked unhealthy overall. I followed the care instructions and gave it the proper attention, but it still didn't perform well. I ended up removing it from my garden and replacing it with a different plant that flourished. I wouldn't recommend this plant based on my experience.