Physocarpus opulifolius Play pronunciation

Ninebark is a flowering, deciduous shrub in the rose family and native to central and eastern North America. It displays white or pink flowers from late spring into early summer. If needed, prune just after blooming, but no later than mid-August. Keep in mind that next year's flowers will appear on old growth. It can be cut to the ground in the winter to rejuvenate. It may be found growing on rocky hillsides and banks of streams as well as in moist thickets.

Ninebark is a tough and adaptable plant that does well in slightly acidic, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. It will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. This plant will do well in full sun in the northern part of its range, but appreciates some shade in its southernmost locations.

It is noted for its exfoliating bark that peels in strips to reveal several layers of reddish to light brown inner bark. The exfoliating bark is best seen in the winter when foliage does not cover it. The common name comes from the layers of bark, said to be 9 layers.

It is easy to transplant and can be used to create a flowering hedge.

Cultivars of the purple-leafed type appear to lose the intensity of the purple when exposed to sunlight for longer periods of the day.

Clemson University Home and Garden Information Center has an article on the use of Ninebark in rain gardens.

Habitat: Var. intermedius: limestone river bluffs, mesic hammocks, streambanks; rock outcrops; var. opulifolius: Stream banks, riverside thickets and scour prairies, rock outcrops, cliffs, fens, seepage swamps, especially over mafic or calcareous rocks.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Relatively trouble free, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and fireblight.