Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) is a small, mounding shrub that grows quickly and supports a variety of birds, moths and butterflies. Ninebark got its name from its peeling bark, which some say has nine layers. The ability of ninebark to grow in harsh conditions makes it especially suitable for erosion control on banks.

Photos: flower by Dan Mullen, bark by Wouter Hagens, fruits by James Gaither, seedlings by GTCD

BUNDLE BREAKDOWN:

Per-bundle pricing displayed below. Multiple-bundle pricing reflected in shopping cart.

Bundle of 5: $22

Bundle of 10: $33

Bundle of 25: $63

Bundle of 50: $102

Bundle of 100: $170

STATS ON NINEBARK

• Mature Height:  5–8 feet

• Mature Width:  4–6 feet

• Soil Type:  Acidic, Clay, Loamy, Sandy

• Moisture:  Dry, Moderate, Moist

• Sun:  Full Sun, Partial Shade

• Growth Rate:  Medium, Fast

KEY CHARACTERISTICS OF NINEBARK

• Whiteish pink flower clusters bloom June-July.

• Ninebark has an interesting peeling texture, from which ninebark gets its name.

• Alternate deciduous leaves are 1 to 3 inches long.

• Seeds appear in August-September and persist into winter.

VISITORS ATTRACTED TO NINEBARK

HELP CONTROL INVASIVES!

Ninebark makes a great alternative to invasive Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii), a common landscape plant that easily escapes cultivation via seed, causing problems in habitat. Japanese barberry can change soil chemistry, harm other plants by exuding “allelopathic” chemicals, and has even been found to harbor black-legged ticks (the ticks that carry Lyme disease) in higher numbers than where barberry is absent. Using ninebark instead not only prevents this harm, but provides birds with seeds to eat and supports the insects they need for their babies!