Description

Ninebark is one of our California natives with many garden virtues but low garden utilization. I am reminded of this when I encounter it growing in rich green thickets in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The thickets are generally no more than five feet tall and wide with dark maple-like leaves over dark striated bark. The white umbel of flowers is prominent and displays well against ninebark’s dark features. The ‘Tilden Park’ selection is compact, growing no more than about two feet in height. It will spread via rhizomes and nodal rooting to match the expanse of available water. Ninebark is generally found in shady settings near (not in) water. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types and drainages. Some summer water is required, though less so with age and the shadiness of the planting site. Winter deciduous.