May Shrub of the Month-Ninebark
Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) gets its common name from the fascinating peeling bark of its mature stems. The leaves hide this feature during the growing season but come fall and winter, it’s an excellent trait for my favorite design term, “winter interest.”
Native ninebarks are found along streams and moist areas like gravel bars, but they, along with the numerous cultivars, have been found to be quite tolerant and adaptable in the landscape. Full sun is preferred, but they do well in part shade, even though flower production might be diminished and even shape compromised.
The size of the native ninebark can reach up to 10’ high and 6’ wide or more. However, new cultivars are constantly being introduced, offering more compact options with unique leaf colors. For instance, TINY WINE and LITTLE DEVIL are popular choices, boasting deep, burgundy foliage and heights of approximately 3-4’.
Some larger cultivars also have deep burgundy foliage with heights from 6’-8’, like Diablo (see top pic) and SUMMER WINE. These work well in shrub borders, especially as a substitute for invasive honeysuckle.
‘Dart’s Gold’ has chartreuse-gold foliage and is around 5’ high and wide. It was crossed with DIABLO to produce ‘Center Glow’ with dark foliage and lighter green tips. The takeaway from all these crosses and cultivars is “READ THE TAGS” and research to avoid disappointment.
All ninebarks have similar flowers of light pink to white. These appear along the slender branches in late spring and are a favorite with pollinators. The reddish fruit in late summer is somewhat showy, but you sometimes have to look hard for it.
What I love about this plant;
-It’s native!
-Comes in a multitude of assorted sizes and colors. (Not native, but cultivars of the native-AKA “nativars”.)
-Great substitute for barberry and honeysuckle! (please)
-Tolerant and adaptable to various conditions in the landscape, from wet to dry and even black walnuts.
What’s not so great;
-I sometimes see a lot of dieback with ninebark. The shrubs can be trimmed down to the ground for rejuvenation. Any pruning is best done right after flowering before August, or you forfeit next spring’s blooms.
-Prone to fireblight and powdery mildew. Some cultivars are more resistant-research and read the plant tags!
Comments or questions? Email Garden-Lou at gardenloustl@gmail.com
Words and photos by Jo Batzer
© Jo Batzer, garden-lou.com-2024, All rights reserved.
