The Snetsinger Butterfly Garden Directory

The name of this attractive native shrub derives from its exfoliating bark, which produces a fascinating variety of shades from red to brown, making it especially valuable in the landscape for winter interest. (A fine example can be seen in the Shrub Showcase garden.) As a member of the Rosaceae family, its flowers are similar to those of spirea (another family member) and are very attractive to pollinators. Its brilliant fall color makes it an outstanding alternative to barberry (burning bush).

 Ninebark grows to a good size–5-8 ft tall and 6-10 ft wide– but can be pruned for a more bushy habit. Like most natives, it’s not fussy, tolerating a wide variety of conditions, but does prefer full sun to part shade, and is a great choice for wet areas. Deer resistant, it requires little care once established.