Diabolo Ninebark

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo'

tree

Diabolo is the dark-leaved ninebark that made this tough native shrub a designer favorite. It is a vigorous, upright deciduous shrub eight to ten feet tall, clothed in deeply colored burgundy-purple, maple-like leaves, and in late spring it adds flat, rounded, spirea-like clusters of white-to-pink flowers that contrast dramatically with the dark foliage; red seed capsules follow. As the stems age they peel into papery layers of brown and tan bark - the trait that gives ninebark its name - for genuine winter interest. Native to eastern North America, it is exceptionally tough, taking clay, drought, cold, and poor sites in stride, and its bold dark color is a striking foil for golden or chartreuse plants in the border.

✅ Plant alongside

Good neighbors that attract beneficial insects or deter pests

• Spirea — A gold-leaved spirea is a classic bright contrast against the dark ninebark foliage
• Catmint — A soft blue mound that sets off the burgundy leaves and draws bees in the same sunny bed
• Black-Eyed Susan — Golden daisies that glow against the dark foliage and extend pollinator interest

🛡️ Pest & disease prevention

Proactive ways to stop trouble before it starts — tap a name with an arrow for its full guide

• Powdery mildew →

  The main ninebark problem, worst in heat, humidity, and shade - site it in full sun with good airflow, choose mildew-resistant types where possible, and avoid wetting the foliage

• Aphids →

  Cluster on tender new growth - rinse off with water and encourage ladybugs

• Japanese beetles →

  Chew the foliage in summer - hand-pick into soapy water in the cool morning and skip lure traps that draw in more

• Leaf spot →

  Minor fungal spotting in wet weather - give airflow, water at the base, and clear fallen leaves

🌾 Harvest & storage

Ninebark stems are excellent in arrangements - the dark foliage, the spirea-like flower clusters, and later the red seed heads all make striking cut material; cut in the cool morning. In the garden the main task is pruning right after the late-spring bloom: cut it back to control its vigorous size and to renew the brightly colored new foliage, which is more intense on fresh growth. An overgrown plant can be cut hard to the base after flowering and will rebound, since it is forgiving of heavy pruning.

🥗 Nutrition & benefits

A native ornamental shrub grown for its bold dark foliage, peeling bark, and late-spring flowers. The flower clusters feed bees and other pollinators, and the seeds and dense form support birds. Grown for ornament; non-toxic and safe around pets and children.