Physocarpus opulifolius

Common Names

Ninebark, Common Ninebark, Atlantic Ninebark, Eastern Ninebark, Nine Bark

Summary

Ninebark is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, with an upright, arching, multi‑stem habit and a mature size of roughly 6–10 ft tall and 4–6 ft wide. Distinctive features include exfoliating bark that peels in layers to reveal a cinnamon-colored inner surface, and leaves usually 3–5 lobed with dull green foliage. In late spring to early summer, clusters of small white or pinkish flowers appear, followed by red-brown seed capsules; fall color is yellow.

It grows best in full sun to partial shade and tolerates neutral to acidic, well-drained soils, including clay and loam, with drought tolerance once established. Propagation is by seed or cuttings (softwood cuttings in summer under mist) or division; prune after flowering to maintain shape; hardiness zones 2–8. Uses include hedges, borders, mass plantings, rain gardens, and landscapes requiring drought-tolerant shrubs; wildlife value includes nectar for bees and butterflies.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

3-10 feet

Spread

3-8 ft

Hardiness Zones

Zones 2-8

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun to partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained loamy soil with pH 4.5–6.5.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

4.5–6.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)

Bloom Color

White or pink

Bloom Time

Late Spring to Early Summer

Foliage Color

Foliage color varies by cultivar, ranging from yellow and green to purplish-red and burgundy.

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow to purplish red, red, purple, burgundy, copper, brown, green to burgundy red

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Fast growing

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Softwood cuttings, Hardwood cuttings, Division, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, other pollinators, and birds