Deciduous & Flowering Shrubs

Pacific ninebark

Physocarpus capitatus

Pacific ninebark brings white late-spring flowers, reddish-brown fruit clusters, and peeling winter bark to an informal planting. Its open, arching framework can reach roughly 5 to 20 feet tall, making it a large shrub rather than a compact border filler. This Pacific-region native suits moist woodland edges, informal screens, and streambank-style gardens with enough room. Sun through shade can work when moisture matches the exposure. In Southwest Washington, water during establishment and dry periods where needed, and retain the relaxed outline with selective renewal pruning. The bark is poisonous and should not be eaten or used in home remedies.

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At a glance

Mature height: About 5–20 ft
Mature spread: Variable; generally less than height
Light: Sun to shade, with suitable moisture
Hardiness: Hardy to about USDA Zone 5

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

Use in moist native planting, along a woodland edge, or as an informal screen. Its arching branches need space, making it better suited to large beds than tightly clipped borders.

Where to plant

Allow room for a large shrub that can reach 5–20 feet tall, depending on conditions. Choose a position with adequate moisture and access for occasional pruning of older stems.

Through the seasons

Clusters of small white flowers appear in late spring, followed by reddish-brown fruit clusters. Peeling bark is easier to see after the leaves fall.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

This Pacific-region native suits many moist Southwest Washington sites, including woodland edges and streambank-style plantings. In drier gardens, plan irrigation rather than assuming regional nativity removes the need for water.

Soil, drainage & water

Prefers acidic soil with dependable moisture and tolerates a range of light levels. Water during establishment and in dry sites, using mulch to help retain moisture around the roots.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Prune after flowering when shaping is needed, or remove older stems as part of renewal pruning. Retain room for the arching branches so repeated clipping is not necessary.

Know what to look for

Common growing concerns.

Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.

Dry-site stress

Wilting, sparse growth, or fewer flowers may develop when soil moisture is insufficient.

Help your plant thrive

Check soil moisture and the site's exposure. Water while roots establish, mulch the root area, and supply additional water during dry periods when needed.

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