Ninebark
Physocarpus opulifolius
2-3 ft height at sale, bare root
2-0
Native to Vermont
Sourced from NY
White/pink blooms May-June. Pollinator friendly.
Description
An excellent native shrub for year-round interest, the arching branches of Common Ninebark give this shrub a full, mounded shape. Five petaled flowers appear in dense, spirea-like clusters in spring, and give way to clusters of reddish-pink capsules. The clusters eventually turn brown and persist into the winter. The leaves are yellow in the fall. Named for its unusual bark which peels in strips to reveal several layers of reddish to light brown inner bark, Ninebark is a popular 'winter interest' shrub.
Physocarpus opulifolius makes an excellent hedge plant and provides good erosion control. Both short and long-tongued bees can access the flower nectar. Mining bees are known to be frequent pollinators of ninebark flowers.
Planting and Cultivation Notes
Common Ninebark has "perfect flowers," meaning that both male and female parts are contained on a single flower. The male and female flower parts develop in sequence, and the flowers themselves are self-infertile. Three plants are recommended for a reliable fruiting. Plants can be divided in the early spring, with a sharp spade, chopping right through the middle. Softwood and hardwood cuttings are easy to root.
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand Soil Moisture Dry, Medium, Moist Sun Exposure Full Sun, Partial, Shade Height 5' - 10' Bloom Color White, Pink Bloom Time May, June Spacing 5' - 10' Hardiness Zones 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 Root Type Fibrous Benefits Birds, Butterflies, Pollinators, Host Plant