Overview
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' is a suckering shrubs in the genus Physocarpus, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, low maintenance and hedging and screens. It is native to New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec.
About
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' is a cultivar of ninebark, a genus of deciduous shrubs in the Rosaceae family. This suckering shrub typically grows to a height and spread of 1.5 to 2.5 metres over 5 to 10 years. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, provided they are well-drained and moist. Native to parts of Canada, ninebark 'Diabolo' is notable for its seasonal interest in spring and summer.
About the genus
Physocarpus, commonly called ninebark, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rosaceae. All but two species are native to North America; the two outliers being native to northeastern Asia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Physocarpus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Physocarpus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Physocarpus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Suckering
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Low Maintenance, Hedging and screens
- Native to
- New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo'
- Cultivation
- Prefers full sun to partial shade; adaptable to a range of soil types; benefits from regular watering during dry periods; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pruning
- Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth; remove dead or damaged wood; can be cut back hard to rejuvenate older plants.
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings in summer, Pot up suckers in autumn
- Pest resistance
- Aphids, Vine Weevil
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo'?
Prefers full sun to partial shade; adaptable to a range of soil types; benefits from regular watering during dry periods; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Where is the best place to plant Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo'?
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' need?
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo'?
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth; remove dead or damaged wood; can be cut back hard to rejuvenate older plants.
How big does Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' grow?
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 1.5-2.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' hardy in the UK?
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo'?
Softwood cuttings in summer, Pot up suckers in autumn.
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