Free Sapling
Rare Breed Coffee has partnered up with the New Hampshire State Forest Nursery for our Arbor Day promo. We purchased 100 ninebark saplings. Starting April 26, you'll receive a FREE ninebark sapling with every coffee order, while supplies last, of course.
Have you ever encountered a shrub that offers year-round interest with its unique peeling bark, delicate blooms, and vibrant foliage? Look no further than the remarkable ninebark (genus Physocarpus). This North American native is gaining popularity among gardeners and landscapers alike, and for good reason! It's a hardy, adaptable, and beautiful addition to any landscape.
Why the Name Ninebark?
The name "ninebark" itself is intriguing, hinting at the multiple layers of papery bark that peel away in strips, revealing shades of brown, tan, and reddish hues underneath. This characteristic provides fantastic winter interest, adding texture and color to an otherwise dormant garden.
Ninebark Looks
Beyond its captivating bark, ninebark boasts attractive, maple-like leaves that come in a range of colors depending on the cultivar, from deep burgundy and purple to vibrant gold and classic green. In late spring to early summer, clusters of delicate white or pinkish-white flowers appear, creating a lovely, frothy display. These blooms are not only beautiful to behold but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding life and buzz to your garden.
As the flowers fade, small, reddish-purple fruit (follicles) develop, persisting into the fall and providing food for birds. This progression of seasonal interest makes ninebark a true four-season wonder.
Main Reason to Plant Ninebark
But the appeal of ninebark goes beyond its aesthetics. This resilient shrub offers a host of benefits for both your garden and the local ecosystem:
Low Maintenance:
Ninebark is generally a tough and undemanding plant. Once established, it requires minimal care, tolerating a wide range of soil conditions and requiring little supplemental watering.
Drought Tolerant:
Its adaptability extends to drier conditions, making it a great choice for water-wise gardening and regions prone to drought.
Pest and Disease Resistant:
Ninebark is generally free from serious pest and disease problems, reducing the need for chemical treatments in your garden.
Attracts Pollinators:
The delicate flowers are a valuable nectar and pollen source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.
Provides Food for Wildlife:
The persistent fruit provides a food source for various bird species during the fall and winter months.
Erosion Control:
Its dense root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it useful for slopes and banks.
Versatile Landscape Use:
Ninebark can be used in a variety of landscape applications, including foundation plantings, hedges, screens, borders, and as a striking specimen plant.
Deer Resistant:
While no plant is entirely deer-proof, ninebark is generally considered to be less attractive to deer than many other shrubs.
Variety of Cultivars:
With numerous cultivars available, you can find a ninebark to suit almost any garden style and size, offering different foliage colors, sizes, and growth habits.
Whether you're looking for a low-maintenance shrub with year-round appeal, a plant that supports local wildlife, or a versatile addition to your landscape design, ninebark is a fantastic choice. Its beauty and benefits make it a true native gem that deserves a place in gardens across North America. Consider adding this remarkable shrub to your yard and enjoy its ever-changing tapestry of textures and colors!