Ninebark, Bare Root

Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)

Ninebark is a tough, fast-growing native shrub prized for its multi-season beauty, ecological value, and adaptability to poor soils and tough sites. Named for its unique, exfoliating bark that peels in thin layers, Ninebark produces dense clusters of white to pinkish flowers in late spring, followed by reddish seed capsules that persist into fall. Its dense growth and wide soil tolerance make it excellent for erosion control, wildlife habitat, native hedgerows, and streambank restoration projects.

Key Characteristics

• Pollinator-Friendly Blooms and Seed for Wildlife
  In May–June, Ninebark produces showy clusters of nectar-rich white to pinkish flowers that attract native bees, syrphid flies, and small butterflies. After bloom, the plant sets clusters of reddish seed capsules, which are eaten by songbirds and provide winter interest in naturalistic plantings.
• Shelter and Nesting Habitat for Insects and Birds
  Ninebark’s dense, twiggy growth creates excellent nesting cover for small birds, and its hollow stems provide overwintering habitat for native bees and beneficial insects. Ideal for insectary hedgerows and wildlife corridors.
• Exfoliating Bark Adds Winter Interest
  As the shrub matures, its bark peels away in strips, revealing layers of reddish to light brown bark beneath—a unique visual feature that adds texture and interest to winter landscapes.
• Thrives in Challenging Conditions
  Native to riparian edges, rocky bluffs, and forest margins, Ninebark thrives in medium-dry to medium-wet soils and tolerates clay, drought, flooding, and urban pollution. It’s an excellent choice for stormwater management, streambank stabilization, and restoration plantings.
• Useful in Permaculture, Meadows, and Native Screens
  With its resilience, pollinator support, and dense form, Ninebark works well as a windbreak, native privacy hedge, or mid-layer shrub in food forests, meadows, and native garden borders. Also performs well in layered, succession-based plantings with early bloom time to support pollinator activity.

Product Details

• Native Range: Eastern and Central North America
• Plant Life Cycle: Deciduous shrub
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Medium-dry to medium-wet
• Mature Height: 5–10 feet
• Bloom Time: May–June
• Bloom Color: White to pinkish
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2–8

Ninebark is a resilient native workhorse—tough, beautiful, and ecologically rich. It’s ideal for regenerative landscapes where biodiversity, erosion control, and multi-season interest matter.