Ninebark is an upright to spreading deciduous shrub with a somewhat coarse texture, growing 5 to 8 feet tall and 4 to 5 feet wide. Noted for its exfoliating bark (on mature branches) which peels in strips to reveal several layers of reddish to light brown inner bark (hence the common name of ninebark). Bark provides winter interest, but in summer is hidden by the foliage. Small pink or white, five-petaled flowers appearing in dense, flat, rounded, spirea-like clusters (corymbs) in late spring. Flowers give way to drooping clusters of reddish fruit. Ovate to rounded, usually 3-5 lobed leaves are dull green in summer changing to an undistinguished yellow in fall. Many varieties are available; P. o. 'Monlo' (Diabolo) has purple leaves.
Grow in well drained soil in full sun to light shade. Adaptive to soil type, as long as it is well draining. Prune selectively after blooming to control height if necessary; prune to renovate in late winter (see Guides).