Ninebark, Physocarpus opulifolius

Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) is an exceptional choice for gardeners seeking a versatile and eye-catching shrub that offers year-round interest and a multitude of benefits. This hardy plant is renowned for its distinctive peeling bark, which reveals attractive layers of color and texture, adding unique visual appeal to your landscape.

Ninebark is celebrated for its vibrant and abundant floral display in late spring to early summer. It produces clusters of small, creamy white to pinkish flowers that are both striking and fragrant. The flowers are highly attractive to a range of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The abundant nectar and pollen provided by its blooms make it a valuable plant for supporting local pollinator populations and enhancing the ecological health of your garden.  These blooms create a stunning contrast against the shrub's rich green foliage, which turns to dramatic shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall.

This deciduous shrub typically reaches a height of 5 to 8 feet with a similar spread, making it an excellent choice for creating hedges, borders, or as a standalone specimen. Its rounded, arching form and attractive, exfoliating bark make it a focal point in any garden. It is a good native substitute for crepe myrtles, having a similar shape and four seasons of interest. 

Ninebark is hardy in zones 2 to 8 and grows in full sun to part shade. It is a versatile addition to any landscape and can be used effectively as a dramatic focal point, a privacy hedge, or a colorful border plant. Its ability to adapt to various soil types and light conditions, along with its low maintenance requirements, makes it an excellent choice for both formal and informal garden settings.