Common Ninebark

Scientific Nomenclature: Physocarpus opulifolius

Common Name: ninebark, common ninebark

Mature Height: 5–10 feet 

Mature Spread: 6–8 feet

Growth Rate: Moderate

Attracts Wildlife: Birds, pollinators and small mammals

Messiness: Ninebark flowers drop in the summer after bloom. It drops fruit pods in autumn. Bark peels off the plant in thin strips throughout the year. 

Shape: Spreading/Multi-stemmed

Native to Kentucky: Yes

Preferred Soils: Ninebark prefers well-drained clay, loam and/or sandy soils but is tolerant of occasional flooding/wetness.

Screening: Can be planted as a screening/privacy barrier, when mass planted. Also useful for erosion control along stream banks.

Drought Tolerance: Moderately resistant to drought.

Coniferous or Deciduous: Deciduous

Pruning: Ninebark can be pruned just after blooming to maintain form, if needed. It can be cut entirely to the ground in winter to rejuvenate the plant.