Ninebark
physocarpus opulifolius
Also known as: ["Common Ninebark","Curtiss Ninebark"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its exfoliating bark and clusters of small, rounded leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Physocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Physocarpus opulifolius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border, adaptable to various landscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34 to 43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and rejuvenation needs.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense midday sun in summer; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soils with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8, tolerating temperatures from -30°F to 20°F (-34°C to -6°C). Prefers cool to moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Protect from late frosts; avoid placing in drafty areas; monitor temperature extremes during seasonal transitions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flowering; use a balanced NPK ratio; water thoroughly after fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; plants may be ready to transplant in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, heating mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; ensure bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Remove one-third of the oldest stems at ground level each year for renewal; trim back wayward branches to maintain form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth. Renewal pruning can rejuvenate older plants.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor planting. If grown in containers, repot every 2–3 years or when root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; inspect roots for health; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback or delayed bud break in cold stress; reduced flowering in suboptimal temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause dieback of new growth and delay flowering. Prolonged freezing may damage buds or stems.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in fall; protect with burlap in extreme cold; choose cold-hardy cultivars for marginal zones.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor. May drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply during heatwaves; apply mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Fertilize in early spring; use balanced fertilizer; avoid high nitrogen; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. Apply a light dose again after flowering if needed.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhysocarpus opulifolius is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases or known compounds in the plant that would pose a risk to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhysocarpus opulifolius is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhysocarpus opulifolius, commonly known as ninebark, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with its consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How fast does Ninebark grow?
A: Physocarpus opulifolius typically grows at a moderate rate, reaching heights of 5-8 feet over several years.
Q: Does Ninebark attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and habitat structure.
Q: Is Ninebark deer resistant?
A: While not entirely deer-proof, Ninebark is generally considered deer resistant in many regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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