Lucky Devil Ninebark
Physocarpus opulifolius ‘ZLEMichX'Lucky Devil Ninebark is a compact native shrub prized for its bright golden foliage, dense habit, and strong landscape performance. New foliage emerges vivid yellow-gold and holds its vibrant color through the growing season, creating striking contrast in borders, foundation plantings, and mixed shrub beds. In late spring to early summer, clusters of small white to pale pink flowers bloom along the branches, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
This rounded deciduous shrub typically grows 3′ – 5′ (ft) tall with a spread of 3′ – 5′ (ft). Its compact size and colorful foliage make it an excellent choice for low hedges, mass plantings, patio-adjacent gardens, and smaller landscape spaces. Peeling bark adds subtle texture and winter interest after leaf drop.
Lucky Devil Ninebark performs best in full sun to partial sun with well-drained soil. It adapts to a variety of soil conditions and tolerates drought, heat, and clay soils once established. Minimal pruning is required to maintain its naturally tidy 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; 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′ – 5′ (ft) apart for airflow and mature spread.
Maintenance: Low maintenance and adaptable to varied growing conditions.
Its vibrant foliage, easy-care nature, and pollinator-friendly blooms make Lucky Devil Ninebark a standout addition to colorful landscape plantings.
