MALLOWLEAF NINEBARK

Physocarpus malvaceus

Rose Family (Rosaceae)

This well-behaved midsize shrub is one of the best for autumn color, turning a deep, cranberry red. It has a rounded growth form and pretty, maple-like leaves. It is also quite beautiful in flower, when rounded sprays of pale pink to white flowers appear on the branch tips. Mallowleaf ninebark is a plant of mountain brush communities in the foothills, often on north slopes, and also grows under aspens higher in the mountains. It appreciates rich soil and regular water in the summer, though it can survive occasional drought. It can be used effectively as a foundation shrub in traditional landscapes, tolerating full sun or partial shade. In waterwise landscapes it should be used in a higher-water zone, It combines well with mountain snowberry, squaw apple, and fernbush for a variety of foliage textures and a succession of bloom times.