This unique shrub is famous for its peeling bark, colorful leaves, and easy care, making it a popular choice for gardens. Native to North America, Ninebark adds texture and interest to any landscape, with a bonus of attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Growing Ninebark is pretty straightforward, and the shrub’s changing colors throughout the year make it a fantastic choice for gardeners looking for year-round beauty.
Popular Ninebark Varieties
- Diabolo Ninebark – Known for its deep purple leaves.
- Summer Wine Ninebark – A compact variety with wine-red foliage.
- Amber Jubilee Ninebark – Famous for its multicolored leaves that change from orange to yellow and green.

Care
- Water: Ninebark is drought-tolerant once it’s established, which means it doesn’t need a lot of water. Just water it regularly during the first growing season, then it can handle drier conditions on its own or occasional overwatering.
- Light: Ninebark loves sunlight! It thrives in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade. More sunlight helps keep the plant’s colors bright and vivid.
- Soil: This shrub isn’t picky when it comes to soil. It can grow in neutral to acidic sandy, clay, or loamy soil as long as it’s mostly well-draining. Adding compost can help the soil stay healthy and nutrient-rich.
- Temperature and Humidity: Ninebark is tough! It can handle cold winters and moderately hot summers. It grows best in zones 3-7, so it’s perfect for a wide range of climates.
Planting & Growing
You can grow ninebark from hardwood cuttings or by air layering, but some varieties are patented and can’t be propagated.
For cuttings, take hardwood pieces in late fall, dip them in rooting hormone, and store them in a plastic bag with moist moss until spring. Then, plant them in pots, water regularly, and wait for them to root by the next growing season.
For air layering, bend a branch into the soil, secure it, and check for roots in early fall. Once rooted, cut the branch from the main plant and replant it.
Pruning
Pruning your ninebark shrub is essential for keeping it healthy and looking its best. The best time to prune is between late winter and early summer, right after the shrub starts to bloom. Start by removing dead or damaged branches and thinning out crowded areas to help the plant grow better.
Light pruning in early summer can keep your shrub tidy, but avoid heavy cuts after mid-summer as the plant begins to slow down. For more info, check out our full guide below on Pruing Ninebark the Right Way!
Common Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Leafrollers
- Powdery mildew (a fungal issue that can be treated with proper care)
Frequently Asked Questions
Should ninebark be cut back?
Cut it back in early spring by removing the biggest, oldest branches from the base. You can remove up to five branches a year, depending on the plant’s size.
Is ninebark fast growing?
Ninebark grows quickly and can reach full size in just one growing season. It’s best planted in early spring when still dormant.
Where is the best place to plant ninebark?
Ninebark thrives in full sun to light shade and prefers well-drained soil but can handle rocky or clay soil too. Once established, it’s also drought-tolerant.
Can you keep ninebark small?
You can trim the outer branches to control its size. Prune as needed during the summer to maintain the desired shape.