Botanical Name: Physocarpus opulifolius 'Monlo'
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Common Name: Diabolo Ninebark  
Plant photo of: Physocarpus opulifolius 'Monlo'
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Water Saving Tip:

Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems. Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

Plant Type

Shrub

 

Height Range

6-12'

 

Flower Color

White

 

Flower Season

Summer

 

Leaf Color

Bronze, Red

 

Bark Color

Green

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

 

Water

High

 

Growth Rate

Moderate

 

Soil Type

Clay, Loam

 

Soil Condition

Average, Rich, Poor, Well-drained, Moist

 

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral, Basic

 

Adverse Factors

Attracts Bees

Design Styles

Formal, Mediterranean, Tropical, Wetlands, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Background, Entry, Shrub Border, Foundation, Walls / Fences

 

Special Uses

Hedge, Screen, Mass Planting

 

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Information by: Stephanie Duer
Photographer:

  • Description

  • Notes

Intense reddish-purple foliage holds its color all summer long on this upright, arching deciduous shrub. Adding to Diabolo ninebark's attractions are the summer-time clusters of creamy white to pinkish flowers. Plant in full sun for best color, though in periods of extreme high heat it may become more deep bronzy green than purple. Fall color is orange. Moderate grower to 8 to 10 feet tall and wide.
Diabolo needs more water than most Physocarpus as it needs full sun for the best color. Plan on watering weekly during the height of the summer in July and August. Use for a hedge or shrub mass near a lawn, to take advantage of the extra watering. Prune selectively or using renovation method; see guide.