What: The dark purple foliage of Physocarpus opulifolius “Diabolo,” with the common name purple-leaf ninebark, is spectacular in the mixed border. Its loose habit is the perfect host for summer-flowering clematis, for the clematis flowers shine against the dark foliage of “Diabolo.” Grow it with shrub roses and perennials, such as Thalictrum delavayi “Hewitt’s Double,” Penstemon “Blackbird” and the glaucous-leaved Parahebe perfoliata. It combines well with ornamental grasses, such as Miscanthus sinensis “Morning Light’” and Stipa gigantea. For dramatic effect add golden- or silver- variegated plants at its base: Molinia caerulea ssp. caerulea “Variegata” or Hakonechloa macra “Aureola.” Let chartreuse Geranium “Ann Folkard” scramble up through ninebark’s purple leaves. This cultivar was selected in Japan and introduced through England by Heronswood and Monrovia nurseries.
Size: The deciduous shrub matures at 8 feet tall and 8 feet wide.
Where: This useful shrub grows well in moist to well-drained soil, but it will tolerate a wide range of conditions including sandy sites and clay. Plant it in full sun to open or light shade. The more sun it receives the richer the foliage.
Care: Once established, it will only need occasional watering during dry weather. Little pruning is needed. The older twiggy canes can be removed, leaving the young whips which flower the best and grow robustly.
— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks
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