Angel Ninebark

Angel Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius 'Hoogi018')

Angel Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius 'Hoogi018') is a compact deciduous shrub grown for its warm, evolving foliage color and its well-branched habit that looks full and finished in the landscape. New growth emerges a vibrant orange, then matures into a rich burgundy-red, with red stems that intensify the overall color effect from spring through fall. In summer, small white, button-like flower clusters sit neatly against the foliage, adding a crisp highlight without taking attention away from the leaves. With its saturated tones and tidy size, Angel Ninebark makes an excellent focal point in shrub borders and containers where you want reliable color and strong structure.

Distinctive Features

The standout feature is the orange-to-burgundy foliage shift, which brings movement and depth to plantings as the season progresses. Red stems add an extra layer of color, especially when the plant is backlit or viewed up close, making it a strong choice for patios and entry areas. The compact, well-branched structure helps it hold a neat outline with minimal effort, and the summer flowers provide a clean contrast that brightens the red tones. Like other ninebarks, it can also develop exfoliating bark on older stems, adding texture after leaves drop.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade; strongest color and densest growth typically develop with more sun.
• Soil: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil but tolerates a range of soil types once established.
• Water: Moderate; water regularly during establishment, then as needed during extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7.
• Habit: Compact, well-branched, multi-stem deciduous shrub.
• Mature Size: About 3 to 4 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a warm-toned foliage anchor where orange and burgundy-red leaves can lift and define a planting.
• Shrub Borders: Adds saturated color and a tidy outline that pairs well with greens, silvers, and golds.
• Container Specimen: A strong choice for terraces and balconies where the red stems and foliage color can be enjoyed up close.
• Foundation Planting: Provides season-long color in a compact size that fits neatly under windows.
• Accent Groupings: Plant in small groups to create a repeating band of warm color through mixed beds.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water consistently the first growing season; after that, water during prolonged drought.
• Pruning: Prune after flowering or in late winter to shape; remove a few older stems at the base to refresh the plant.
• Color Management: Provide more sun for richer burgundy-red tones and stronger stem color.
• Fertilizing: Usually not needed; feed lightly in spring if growth is weak.
• Mulching: Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds, keeping mulch off the base of stems.
• Hardiness: Tough and adaptable once established, making it well-suited for low-maintenance landscapes.

Why Choose Angel Ninebark?

• Orange to Burgundy Foliage: New growth starts vibrant orange, then matures into warm burgundy-red for season-long color.
• Red Stems: Stem color enhances the foliage tones and adds extra visual punch up close.
• Summer Flowers: Small white, button-like blooms provide a crisp contrast against red foliage.
• Compact and Well-Branched: Dense habit stays neat and full, making it easy to place in smaller beds.
• Strong Focal Point Value: Delivers warm, saturated color and tidy structure in borders and containers.

If you want a compact shrub with orange new growth, warm burgundy-red foliage, and red stems that add extra depth, Angel Ninebark brings focal point color and dependable structure to sunny and partially shaded landscapes.