PLANT FINDER
Darkstar Ninebark
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Darkstar'
Height: 8 feet
Spread: 5 feet
Sunlight:
Hardiness Zone: 4b
Other Names: Eastern Ninebark
Description:
A smaller, compact variety with dark purple leaves, bordering on black; contrasting white flowers really stand out in summer, followed by red fruit; peeling papery bark adds winter interest; extremely tough and durable, use in groups or as a hedge
Ornamental Features
Darkstar Ninebark features showy clusters of white flowers at the ends of the branches from early to mid summer, which emerge from distinctive pink flower buds. It has attractive deep purple foliage with hints of black which emerges burgundy in spring. The serrated lobed leaves are highly ornamental and turn an outstanding dark red in the fall. It features abundant showy red capsules from early to mid fall. The peeling tan bark and crimson branches add an interesting dimension to the landscape.
Landscape Attributes
Darkstar Ninebark is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively coarse texture can be used to stand it apart from other landscape plants with finer foliage.
This shrub will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and can be pruned at anytime. It has no significant negative characteristics.
Darkstar Ninebark is recommended for the following landscape applications;
- Accent
- Mass Planting
- Hedges/Screening
- General Garden Use
Planting & Growing
Darkstar Ninebark will grow to be about 8 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 5 feet. It has a low canopy, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.
This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. This plant does not require much in the way of fertilizing once established. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selection of a native North American species.
