Physocarpus opulifolius 'Red Baron'

RHS Plant Profile
ninebark 'Red Baron'
Shrubs

A deciduous, suckering shrub with red stems and dark red foliage. Pinky-white flower clusters are borne in early summer, maturing to givesmall red fruits. Height to around 1.5-2m

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Suckering
Genus
Physocarpus are bushy deciduous suckering shrubs with palmately lobed leaves and corymbs of small cream flowers in early summer, followed by small, bladdery brown fruits
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows best in acidic, moderately fertile, humus-rich soil. Chlorosis may occur if grown in shallow chalky soil. Plant in full sun for best foliage colour

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer or pot up rooted suckers in autumn or spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Lightly thin old stems. Pruning group 2

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus