Physocarpus: Pacific Ninebark
If you have a naturally-moist area of your garden with space for a mid-sized shrub to settle in and make itself at home, the Pacific Ninebark might be the perfect choice.
Plant care & info
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Physocarpus
Common name: Western Ninebark, Pacific Ninebark
Alaska, western British Columbia south to California. In Oregon, it’s found primarily west of the Cascades, most often in north-central and far northeast counties.
Pacific ninebark is an upright, thicket-producing shrub that can range in size from 6 to 12 feet tall and wide, depending on the amount of sun and water it receives. Deciduous leaves are lobed and toothed, similar to red-flowering currant and reminiscent of maple. Tight clusters of small white flowers appear in late spring into mid-summer, followed by persistent brown seed coats. Its reddish peeling bark makes it an attractive specimen in the winter garden.
Full sun to part shade, moist to fairly wet soil. Requires some pruning to keep its naturally graceful, arching shape from getting straggly.
Occasionally subject to aphids and powdery mildew, but not frequently. Generally trouble-free.
In the wild, it can be found along stream banks, and along the edges of moist woodlands and wetlands (it will indeed languish if allowed to get too dry).
The clusters of flower buds, with their reddish-pink hue, open to reveal near spheres of tightly packed, tiny white flowers from April to July. What follows are pinkish-brown seed coats that tend to remain on the plant throughout the year, adding more contrast and texture (along with the peeling bark) for winter interest.
Slightly crinkled, dark/bright green lobed leaves—reminiscent of currant or maple—are a beautifully textured contrast against the reddish-brown, shredding bark.
The multi-stemmed habit of Physocarpus creates a graceful, slightly arching thicket that’s perfect for a mixed hedgerow or natural, wooded area. This environment is attractive to birds and provides a good source of cover and protection for nesting sites. The upright, graceful shape can be further emphasized by pruning. Its extensive root system also makes it a good option for sites on a slope, along waterways, or areas in need of erosion control.
Aside from occasional pruning and assurance of sufficient moisture, ninebark needs little else in the way of care. It’s virtually pest and disease free, though it can be troubled by aphids or powdery mildew on occasion.
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We offer a great selection of Northwest Natives from spring through fall. The plants featured are highlighted favorites, but they do not represent ALL of the plants we carry. For a more complete list, see our Northwest Native Plant List.
