Physocarpus opulifolius

Physocarpus opulifolius is also known as Desert Willow. The plant is an evergreen shrub native to the desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Its flowers become red in the fall, when they develop a dense red fruit at the bottom of the inflorescence.Physocarpus opulifolius (Common Ninebark) is a fast-growing, upright, spreading, deciduous shrub with an exquisite fountain shape and incredibly decorative exfoliating bark. Profuse creamy-white flowers, delicately pink-tinged, appear in dense, rounded clusters in late spring before they give way to drooping clusters of red fruit in fall. Rich in nectar, the blossoms attract plenty of beneficial insects. The flowers contrast beautifully with the interesting maple-like foliage of green lobed leaves, which warms up to yellow in the fall. Hidden by the foliage during the growing season, the bark is revealed in all its splendor later in the season, peeling in multiple strips to display layers of reddish to light brown inner bark, providing winter interest. Known for its strong hardiness, insect and disease resistance, and drought tolerance, Common Ninebark is a splendid screening and hedge plant.

Plant

A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, slightly acidic, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Best bloom display occurs in full sun but appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer areas. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, including dry soil and clay soil. Common Ninebark does not enjoy hot and humid summer climates. Drought tolerant.Common Ninebark has "perfect flowers," meaning that both male and female parts are contained on a single flower. The male and female flower parts develop in sequence, and the flowers themselves are self-infertile. Three plants are recommended for a reliable fruiting. Plants can be divided in the early spring, with a sharp spade, chopping right through the middle. Softwood and hardwood cuttings are easy to root.

Each species is different, so be sure to check the GERMINATION CODE listed on the website, in the catalog, or on your seed packet. Then, follow the GERMINATION INSTRUCTIONS prior to planting. Some species don't need any pre-treatment to germinate, but some species have dormancy mechanisms that must be broken before the seed will germinate. Some dormancy can be broken in a few minutes, but some species take months or even years.packs and trays of 32, 38, or 50 plants leave our Midwest greenhouses based on species readiness (being well-rooted for transit) and order date; Spring shipping is typically early May through June, and Fall shipping is mid-August through September. Potted 3-packs and trays of 38 plugs are started from seed in the winter so are typically 3-4 months old when they ship. Trays of 32/50 plugs are usually overwintered so are 1 year old. Plant tray cells are approximately 2” wide x 5” deep in the trays of 38 and 50, and 2.5" wide x 3.5" deep in the 3-packs and trays of 32; ideal for deep-rooted natives. Full-color tags and planting & care instructions are included with each order. (Source:www.prairiemoon.com)