The Story
Plant Bio
A deciduous shrub characterized by its dark purple foliage and white flowers. It is a popular choice for landscape design due to its attractive appearance and hardy nature.
The Diabolo cultivar features striking deep burgundy foliage that retains its color throughout the growing season, contrasting beautifully with the white flowers.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
108 inches
Width
108 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate, prefers moist soil
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
10-15 years
Native To
Eastern and Central North America
Toxicity
Parts can cause mild stomach upset if ingested
Bloom period
Early summer – Late summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a location with full sun for optimal growth.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained soil, 6 weeks before last frost.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply organic fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.
- Prune after flowering to shape and remove dead wood.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew and promote healthy foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry periods 💧
- Prune in early spring to maintain shape ✂️
- Apply balanced fertilizer annually 🌱
- Monitor for pests regularly 🐞
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late summer or fall ❌
- Refrain from fertilizing excessively, which can cause leggy growth ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Diabolo Ninebark questions
What zones can Diabolo Ninebark grow in?
Diabolo Ninebark is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Diabolo Ninebark deer resistant?
Yes — Diabolo Ninebark is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Diabolo Ninebark bloom?
Diabolo Ninebark typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Diabolo Ninebark need full sun?
Diabolo Ninebark does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Diabolo Ninebark drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Diabolo Ninebark handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Physocarpus to compare
Ginger Wine Ninebark
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Ginger Wine'
Ninebark Summer Wine
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Summer Wine'
Pacific Ninebark
Physocarpus capitatus
Ninebark
Physocarpus opulifolius
Tiny Wine Ninebark
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Tiny Wine'
Golden Ninebark
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Lynwood Gold'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Diabolo Ninebark with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.