With its upright, arching branches and dark chocolate to purple foliage, Diabolo® ninebark offers a color contrast with silver-leaved plants and makes a fine backdrop hedge. Clusters of button-like, pinkish white flowers appear in summer. Even when they fade to a tawny tone, they stand out nicely against the dark leaves. —Chris McKernan, Regional Picks: Lower Plains, Fine Gardening #120
Noteworthy CharacteristicsDark foliage, interesting bark
CareProvide full sun to partial shade and rich, moist, well-drained, acidic soil.
PropagationStart new plants from greenwood cuttings in summer, or remove rooted suckers in spring or fall. Alternatively, sow seed in containers outdoors in spring or fall.
ProblemsNothing serious. When grown in partial shade or with excessive heat, the foliage may turn dark green.
- Genus : Physocarpus
- Zones : 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
- Plant Height : 6 to 10 feet
- Plant Width : 6 to 10 feet
- Bloom Time : Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Characteristics : Interesting Bark, Showy Foliage
- Maintenance : Low
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Foliage Color : Purple/Burgundy
- Plant Type : Shrubs
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
- Flower Color : White
