Physocarpus Diabolo®

Winner of the 2002 Gold Medal Plant Award, Diabolo® is an upright ninebark cultivar from Kordes Nursery in Germany that provides the garden with 3 seasons of interest. In late spring, this spreading deciduous shrub, closely related to genus Spiraea, blooms in spiraea-like clusters of small, spherical, pinkish white flower "buttons" on long arching canes of dark red-purple foliage, followed by reddish fruit. The foliage maintains its color during much of the growing season. The best purple color is in full sun, with the color becoming dark green in shade or hot summer temperatures. Mature branches are fairly concealed most of the year, but winter exposes their reddish to light brown exfoliating layers of bark, adding winter interest.

The bush is drought resistant, grows in a wide range of soils, including shallow rocky soil, and is a good choice for areas of erosion. Its mature size is approximately 8 to 10 feet tall and wide, but it can be pruned as desired immediately after blooming or cut close to the ground each winter to rejuvenate. Cold hardy to Zone 3, the plant is marginal in the hot and humid climates of the deep South.

Uses: Shrub Borders, Mass Plantings, Hedges, Screens, Native Gardens, Erosion Control

Companion Plants: Pennisetum, Spiraea, Buxus, Picea, Weigela