Maintenance Landscaping Design

Physocarpus opulifolius diabolo is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is a member of the Rosaceae family and is closely related to the apple. The plant is named for its resemblance to the fruit of the same name. The diabolo plant grows to a height of 6-8 feet and has a spread of 4-6 feet. It has dark green leaves that are 3-5 inches long and 2-3 inches wide. The leaves are serrated and have a glossy surface. The plant produces white flowers that are 2-3 inches wide. The flowers are followed by red fruits that are 1-2 inches in diameter. The diabolo plant is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is drought tolerant and does not require a lot of water. The plant is hardy in zones 4-8.

Also known as

• physocarpus opulifolius 'diabolo'
  
• red-twig dogwood
  
• ninthwort
  
• bitter dogwood
  
• red osier dogwood

Basic info

• Physocarpus opulifolius diabolo, commonly known as Ninebark or Bitterberry, is a deciduous shrub native to North America.
  
• It is a member of the rose family (Rosaceae) and closely related to other members of the genus Physocarpus, such as P. opulifolius and P. tetragonus.
  
• The shrub typically grows to a height of 2-3 m (6-10 ft) and has a spread of 1-2 m (3-6 ft).
  
• It has a rounded habit and bears pinnate leaves with 3-7 ovate- to lanceolate-shaped leaflets.
  
• The leaves are dark green in summer, but turn a spectacular red-orange in fall.
  
• The shrub also produces small, white or pinkish flowers in clusters in late spring or early summer.
  
• These are followed by spherical, red fruit (known as "bitterberries") which ripen in late summer or early fall.
  
• The fruit is edible but very tart and is often used in jams or jellies.
  
• P. opulifolius diabolo is a popular ornamental plant and is often used in shrub borders or as a hedge.
  
• It is relatively easy to grow and is tolerant of a range of soil types and conditions, although it prefers moist, well-drained soils.

Related plant:
Physocarpus Opulifolius Darts Gold

How to Grow

1. For physocarpus opulifolius diabolo, first step is to purchase a plant that is at least 6 inches tall.
   
2. Second step is to find a location in your garden that receives full sun to partial shade.
   
3. Once you have found the perfect location, third step is to dig a hole that is twice the size of the plant’s root ball.
   
4. Fourth step is to remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole you have dug.
   
5. Fifth step is to fill in the hole with soil, making sure to firm it around the plant.
   
6. Sixth step is to water the plant deeply.
   
7. Seventh step is to mulch around the plant to help conserve moisture.
   
8. Eighth step is to fertilize the plant according to package directions.
   
9. Ninth step is to prune the plant as needed to shape it.
   
10. Last step is to enjoy your beautiful physocarpus opulifolius diabolo!

Related plant:
Physocarpus Lady In Red

Soil Condition

About soil condition, physocarpus opulifolius diabolo prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils that are moist but well-drained. It grows best in full sun but can tolerate some shade. This plant is not drought tolerant.

About light

Like the other plants, the Physocarpus opulifolius diabolo also needs sunlight in order to grow properly. Without sunlight, the plant will not be able to produce the food it needs to survive. That's why it's important to ensure that this plant gets plenty of sunlight each day.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is most favorable for physocarpus opulifolius diabolo is one that is cool and moist. This plant thrives in areas that have moderate humidity and temperatures that do not exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 60% This plant comes from North America and prefers to grow in slightly acidic to neutral soil that is moist but well-drained. It will do best in full sun to partial shade and will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. This plant is not picky about humidity, but it will not tolerate wet feet, so make sure the soil is well-drained.

Fertilizer Requirement

Discussing fertilizer, this kind of plant doesn't need much. A little compost or other organic matter in the planting hole is really all that's required. Once established, it's quite drought tolerant, so you can let the soil dry out a bit between watering. Just make sure to keep an eye on it during extended periods of heat or drought. As for the roots, they are quite fibrous and spreading, so be careful not to plant it too close to foundations or sidewalks.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of keeping your Physocarpus opulifolius Diabolo healthy and looking its best. As with most shrubs, you'll want to prune back any dead or dying branches as soon as you see them. You should also prune back any branches that are rubbing against each other, as this can cause damage to the bark. In terms of when to prune, late winter or early spring is typically the best time.

The Propagation

Propagation of Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' is best done by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, new growth and should be about 4-6 inches long. Use a sharp knife or pruners to make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in a well-drained planting mix. Keep the soil moist but not wet and in a few weeks, you should see new growth.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate during the spring and summer months, when the plant is actively growing. The specific growth rate varies from plant to plant, with some growing much faster than others. In general, though, the physocarpus opulifolius diabolo has a relatively fast growth rate compared to other plants. This is likely due to the plant's ability to take advantage of the longer days and warmer temperatures during these months.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, canker, leaf spot, and stem borers. These problems usually result in the plant looking unhealthy and stressed. In some cases, the plant may even die.

Growing Tips

• Remember to water your Diabolo regularly, especially when the weather is hot or dry.
  
• Diabolos like a lot of sun, so make sure to plant them in a spot that gets plenty of light.
  
• Diabolos are fast-growing plants, so you may need to fertilize them every few weeks during the growing season.
  
• To keep your Diabolo looking its best, trim off any dead or dying leaves or branches as needed.
  
• If you live in an area with cold winters, you may need to protect your Diabolo with a layer of mulch or a burlap wrap.
  
• When it comes time to transplant your Diabolo, be sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball.
  
• When planting your Diabolo, make sure to keep the crown of the plant above ground level.
  
• Once your Diabolo is planted

Substitution

• Physocarpus capitatus Physocarpus capitatus (Physocarpus capitatus commonly known as horsebladder-physocarpus) is a species of flowering plant in the family Rosaceae; its common name is a misnomer. It is native to the United States.
  
• Physocarpus malvaceus Physocarpus malvaceus (Physocarpus malvaceus commonly known as malvaceous physocarpus) is a species of flowering plant in the family Rosaceae; its common name is a misnomer. It is native to the western United States.
  
• Physocarpus lythrifolius Physocarpus lythrifolius (Physocarpus lythrifolius commonly known as lythraceous-leaved physocarpus) is a species of flowering plant in the family Rosaceae; its common name is a misnomer

Source:
Physocarpus opulifolius - Ninebark - ucanr.edu
Common Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) - Selecting Shrubs …
Species: Physocarpus opulifolius - woodyplants.cals.cornell.edu