Physocarpus is a flowering plant in the rose family. It is native to eastern Asia, from the Himalayas east to Japan. It is a small deciduous shrub growing to 12 m tall. The leaves are opposite, oval-shaped, 37 cm long and 24 cm broad, with a serrated margin. The flowers are white, 59 mm diameter, with five petals; they are produced in clusters of 520 together in the leaf axils. The fruit is a dry drupe 59 mm diameter.
Related plant:
Physocarpus Opulifolius Darts Gold
Related plant:
Physocarpus Diabolo
About soil condition, Physocarpus prefers well-drained, moist to average soil, but it is adaptable to various soil conditions. It grows best in full sun to partial shade, but it tolerates shade. It also tolerates a wide range of pH levels, from acidic to alkaline.
Not too different with other plants, the amount of sun light that Physocarpus needs depends on the variety. Some varieties can tolerate full sun, while others prefer partial sun or even full shade. When grown in partial sun, the foliage of Physocarpus often has a more reddish or purple tint.
The temperature condition of the air is very important to the growth and development of plants. For example,Physocarpus is a plant that thrives in warm conditions. If the temperature drops too low, the plant will not be able to grow and develop properly.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant are between 40%-60%. The plant does best in evenly moist soils, however it is drought tolerant once established. It is important to water this plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months. If the soil becomes too dry, the leaves will begin to wilt.
For the fertilizer, this plant does best with organic options like compost or manure. You can also use chemical fertilizers, but be sure to follow the package directions carefully. As for the roots, they are shallow and spreading, so be careful not to damage them when you are working in the garden.
Pruning is an important part of keeping your Physocarpus healthy and looking its best. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. You can prune to remove dead or damaged branches, to encourage new growth, or to shape the plant. When pruning, be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears.
Propagation of Physocarpus can be done through seed, cuttings, or division. Seed can be sown in the spring or fall, while cuttings can be taken in the summer. For division, wait until the plant is dormant in the fall or winter. Choose a young, healthy plant with plenty of root mass. Carefully dig up the plant and divide it into 2-3 sections, making sure each section has several shoots. Replant each section in a prepared bed and water well.
Usually, the plant growth rate is rapid during the first year after planting, but then slows considerably. Two-year-old plants are typically only half the size of one-year-olds. However, three-year-old plants have been known to produce flower buds, so don't give up on your physocarpus if it doesn't seem to be growing as quickly as you'd like.
Common problems for this kind of plant are canker and powdery mildew. Canker is a fungal disease that attacks the bark and twigs of the plant, eventually causing them to die. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to become covered in a white, powdery substance. Both of these diseases can be controlled with the use of fungicides.
Source:
Physocarpus opulifolius - Ninebark - ucanr.edu
Pacific ninebark - The North Creek Wetland - UW Bothell
Physocarpus: Garden Color All Growing Season | Scott Arboretum
