Lady in Red Ninebark

Lady in Red Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius 'Lady in Red')

Lady in Red Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius 'Lady in Red') is a graceful deciduous shrub admired for its vibrant red foliage, soft texture, and appealing spring blooms. With a looser, arching habit and multi-season color, this selection adds elegance and movement to mixed borders, foundation plantings, and naturalistic garden designs.

Distinctive Features

'Lady in Red' emerges in spring with bright cherry-red foliage that softens to a rich burgundy tone as the season progresses. The finely cut, lobed leaves give the plant a delicate appearance, while its naturally arching branches lend a sense of motion and lightness. In late spring, clusters of soft pinkish-white flowers appear, followed by decorative seed heads. The peeling bark adds winter interest, making this variety an attractive focal point throughout the year.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerant of a wide range of conditions including clay and loam
• Water: Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture during establishment
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 7

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bold foliage and graceful habit draw attention in mixed beds
• Foundation Planting: Softens hard lines with colorful foliage and arching form
• Pollinator Gardens: Spring flowers support bees and early-season pollinators
• Naturalistic Borders: Fits seamlessly into informal or cottage-style gardens
• Mixed Shrub Plantings: Adds fine texture and seasonal contrast

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season; more drought tolerant once established
• Pruning: Prune after flowering to shape or rejuvenate; remove older stems to maintain vigor
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer if needed
• Mulching: Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
• Disease Resistance: Improved resistance to powdery mildew compared to older cultivars

Why Choose Lady in Red Ninebark?

• Vibrant Foliage: Bright red to burgundy leaves provide long-lasting color
• Elegant Form: Arching habit adds softness and movement to the garden
• Multi-Season Interest: Flowers, seed heads, and bark offer year-round appeal
• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and adaptable to a range of conditions
• Focal Point: Showy color and graceful structure make it a standout feature

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Lady in Red' brings a refined look to the landscape with its rich foliage color, delicate branching, and dependable performance, making it a beautiful and versatile choice for gardens of all styles.