Family: Rosaceae
Common Name: Ninebark

Grown for their flowers, handsome foliage and unusual fruits, these ten species of hardy, deciduous shrubs are natives of Asia and America. The species in general cultivation are all native to the United States. The bark of the branches peels off in winter, to reveal a brightly coloured, patterned surface. The serrated, lobed leaves are prominently veined and the small flowers form decorative clusters along the branches. These shrubs are useful for borders and as specimen plants.

Species

P. bracteatus, zone 6, grows to 2 m (6 ft), with white, summer flowers.

P. capitatus, zone 6, to 3 m (10 ft), has an upright habit and produces white, summer flowers.

P. malvaceus, zone 6, grows to 2 m (6 ft), and has white, summer flowers.

P. monogynus, zone 5, grows to 1 m (3 ft), with pink flowers.

P opulifolius, common ninebark, zone 2, from the United States, is a very attractive species and probably the most commonly cultivated. It has rounded, heart-shaped leaves, white to pink flowers and reddish, inflated fruits. It grows to 3 m (10 ft). Cultivar 'Luteus' has bright yellow leaves when young.

Cultivation

Physocarpus likes a moist, loamy soil and will grow in full sun or partial shade. Prune straggly growth in spring. Propagate from ripe seed sown in a light seed compost, or from summer cuttings of semi-hardwood struck in a sandy peat mix. Rooted suckers can also be divided from the main growth.

Climate

There are species suited to various climatic zones.