Physocarpus opulifolius Diable D'Or

A purple-leaved cultivar of the North American species, Physocarpus opulifolius Diable D'Or is a medium-sized, slow-growing, deciduous shrub with a spreading, bushy, suckering habit and arching brown branches. The small, maple-like leaves are a rich purplish-wine colour, wonderfully setting off the small, scented, white and pink flowers, which appear in June. These are followed by small brown bladder-like fruits in autumn. The foliage complements late summer scarlets and reds, and pinks, blues and silvers earlier in the year, when its own flowers appear. Cut back stems after flowering for bigger, better leaves. Ninebark Diable D'Or holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any well drained acid to neutral soil, but will tolerate damp.
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: Spring, summer, autumn
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 8’ (2.5m) Spread: 6’6” (2m)