How to Grow Physocarpus Opulifolius - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Physocarpus opulifolius is a hardy, deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is a member of the rose family and is related to the Crabapple. The plant is also known as the ninebark or odorless waterleaf. The shrub grows to a height of 6-15 feet and has a spread of 4-10 feet. The plant is characterized by its wrinkled, brown bark and its white or pink flowers. The flowers are followed by reddish-purple fruits. The leaves are oval-shaped and have serrated margins. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

How to Grow Physocarpus Opulifolius - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • American aluminumplant
  • Bayberry
  • Bitterbush
  • Bitterwood
  • Buckthorn

Basic info

  • Physocarpus opulifolius is a flowering plant in the rose family.
  • It is native to North America, where it occurs in the United States and Canada.
  • The plant is also known as ninebark, due to the shredding of its bark.
  • The bark and leaves of physocarpus opulifolius contain tannins, which have astringent and antimicrobial properties.
  • The plant has been used medicinally by Native Americans for centuries, and is still used in herbal medicine today.
  • Physocarpus opulifolius is a deciduous shrub, typically growing to 3-6 m (10-20 ft) tall.
  • The leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate in shape, and 3-10 cm (2-4 in) long.
  • The flowers are small, white, and borne in clusters.
  • The fruit is a dark-colored, spherical drupe.
  • Physocarpus opulifolius is commonly planted as an ornamental shrub.

Related plant:
Physocarpus Opulifolius Darts Gold

Planting Process

  1. For physocarpus opulifolius, first step is to plant the tree in an acidic soil.
  2. Water the tree regularly, especially during the first growing season.
  3. Fertilize the tree twice a year using an acid-based fertilizer.
  4. Prune the tree regularly to encourage growth.
  5. Protect the tree from harsh winds and cold temperatures.
  6. Harvest the fruit when it is ripe.
  7. Store the fruit in a cool, dry place.
  8. Enjoy the fruit of your physocarpus opulifolius tree!

Related plant:
Physocarpus

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, Physocarpus opulifolius can grow in various types of soils including loam, sand, and clay. The soil should be well-drained, and the plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. The plant is moderately tolerant of salt and can handle brief periods of drought.

Light condition

So, like the other plants, the Physocarpus opulifolius needs sun to grow. However, it is not as picky as some plants when it comes to the amount of sun it needs. This shrub can grow in full sun, partial sun, or even full shade. So, if you are looking for a plant that can brighten up a shady spot in your garden, the Physocarpus opulifolius is a good choice.

The Temperature

The temperature condition of (physocarpus opulifolius) is (5 to 10 degrees Celsius). It is a (deciduous) tree that is native to (North America). (Physocarpus opulifolius) grows in (clay, loam, sand, and well-drained) soils. It prefers (sunny) locations and can tolerate (shade).

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40-50%. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will become increasingly susceptible to fungal diseases. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will become dry and brittle.

Fertilizer Requirement

Mentioning fertilizer, this plant 's roots are able to extract minerals and other essential nutrients quite well from average soil without the addition of any fertilizer. However, providing a fertilizer will give the plant a boost and encourage more flowers and foliage growth. The best time to fertilize is in early spring, before new growth begins. A general-purpose fertilizer should be all that's needed.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of plant care for Physocarpus opulifolius. This shrub can become overgrown and unmanageable if left unpruned, so it's important to trim it back each year. Doing so will help keep it looking its best and prevent it from becoming a nuisance in your garden.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of Physocarpus opulifolius can be achieved through softwood or hardwood cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 6-8 inches long and taken from the tips of the stems. Cut just below a leaf node and remove the bottom leaves. New growth is important because it will root more easily. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-drained potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not wet and in a warm location out of direct sunlight. The cuttings should root within 6-8 weeks.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate during the spring and fall, when the weather is milder and there is more rainfall. The growth rate is affected by the amount of sunlight the plant receives, the quality of the soil, and the amount of water available.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are leaf spot, powdery mildew, and aphids. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery growth on the leaves. Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and the plant to weaken.

List to Know

  • Make sure to plant in an area with full sun to partial shade.
  • Amend the soil with organic matter prior to planting.
  • Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
  • Set the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
  • Backfill the hole with soil and water in well.
  • Add a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant.
  • Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
  • Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-
  • Prune as needed to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches.
  • Enjoy the beautiful flowers and colorful fall foliage!

Alternative Plants

  • Physocarpus 'nanus' dwarf ninebark
  • Physocarpus 'summer wine'
  • Physocarpus 'dart's gold'
  • Physocarpus 'diablo' ninebark
  • Physocarpus 'center glow'
  • Physocarpus 'coppertina' ninebark
  • Physocarpus 'luteus' gold-leaved ninebark
  • Physocarpus 'purity'
  • Physocarpus 'thundercloud'
  • Physocarpus 'little devil'

Source:
Common Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)-Hort Answers
Physocarpus opulifolius - Ninebark - ucanr.edu
Common Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) - Selecting Shrubs …

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