Common Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)

Common Ninebark, is an upright, spreading, somewhat coarse, deciduous shrub which is closely related to the genus Spiraea. From white flowers in spring to outstanding burgundy foliage all summer, to beautiful bright red fruit in fall, to the interesting exfoliating bark in winter, there is always something going on!

Noted for its exfoliating bark (on mature branches) which peels in strips to reveal several layers of reddish to light brown inner bark (hence the common name of ninebark). Bark provides winter interest, but is usually hidden by the foliage during the growing season. Features small pink or white, five-petaled flowers appearing in dense, flat, rounded, 1-2” diameter, spirea-like clusters in late spring. Flowers give way to drooping clusters of reddish seed capsules. Flowers on old wood.

Easily grown in average, slightly acidic, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions. 

Fall Color & Fruit; Attracts: 🐝 
Light: full sun to part shade
Soil: dry to medium, well-drained
Mature Height: 5' - 9'