Little Devil Ninebark
Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Donna May’Little Devil Ninebark is a compact native shrub known for its deep burgundy foliage, dense upright habit, and easy-care nature. Its finely textured dark foliage holds rich color throughout the growing season, creating bold contrast in borders, foundation plantings, and mixed shrub beds. In late spring to early summer, clusters of small pink-white flowers bloom along the stems, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
This compact deciduous shrub typically grows 3′ – 4′ (ft) tall with a spread of 3′ – 4′ (ft). Its smaller size makes it ideal for foundation plantings, low hedges, patio-adjacent beds, and smaller landscape spaces where season-long foliage color is desired. Peeling bark also provides subtle winter interest.
Little Devil Ninebark grows best in full sun to partial sun with well-drained soil. It adapts well to a variety of soil types and tolerates drought, heat, and clay soils once established. Minimal pruning is needed to maintain its naturally compact form.
Care Instructions:
Planting: Plant in full sun to partial sun for best foliage color and flowering.
Soil: Adapts to a variety of soils but prefers well-drained conditions.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment. Ninebark is drought-tolerant when mature.
Fertilizing: Fertilizer is rarely needed in average garden soils.
Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering if shaping is desired.
Spacing: Space plants 3′ – 4′ (ft) apart for mature spread and airflow.
Maintenance: Low maintenance and adaptable to varied growing conditions.
Its dark foliage, manageable size, and pollinator-friendly flowers make Little Devil Ninebark a versatile addition to modern and traditional landscapes alike.
