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Family: Ninebark
Type: Shrub
Other Common Name: Eastern Ninebark
Little Devil Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Donna May’) is a compact, ornamental shrub known for its striking foliage, manageable size, and low maintenance needs. Its deep burgundy leaves provide a stunning contrast against brighter plants in the garden, making it a favorite among landscapers and gardeners alike. This resilient shrub thrives in a range of conditions, displaying small, pinkish-white flowers in spring followed by attractive red seed heads.
The Little Devil Ninebark is particularly valued for its year-round interest and adaptability to different garden styles. It’s drought tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious landscapes. The plant’s compact habit means it rarely requires pruning, and its disease-resistant foliage maintains its appeal without the need for chemical treatments, showcasing nature’s beauty with minimal human intervention.
Incorporating the Little Devil Ninebark into your garden not only adds depth with its richly colored leaves but also supports local wildlife, offering shelter and food for birds. Whether used as a standalone specimen, part of a mixed border, or as a foundation plant, this ninebark cultivar enhances outdoor spaces with its structured form and vibrant color. Its ease of care and distinctive appearance make it a versatile addition to any garden setting.
Hardiness Zone: 2a-7b
Pet Friendly: Yes
Moisture Preference: Dry to moist
Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade
Growth Rate: Medium
Average Height (feet): 4
Average Spread (feet): 3
Average Life Span (years): 30
Form: Upright spreading
Flower Color: White
Secondary Flower Color: Shell pink
Bloom Season: In early summer
Foliage Color: Red
Leaf Fall Color: Purple
Foliage Shape: Lobed
Bark Color: Tan
Bark Texture: Peeling
Adding Little Devil Ninebark to your yard brings instant visual appeal with its dramatic foliage and compact growth. Planting it along walkways or driveways creates an eye-catching border that guides visitors through your landscape. Its small size also makes it ideal for urban gardens or tight spaces where larger shrubs might overwhelm.
Pairing Little Devil Ninebark with plants that have golden, silver, or light green foliage will accentuate its deep burgundy leaves, creating a dynamic contrast that draws the eye. Consider using it as a backdrop for perennial flowers or ornamental grasses to achieve a layered look that adds depth and interest to your garden design.
For a low-maintenance, high-impact garden feature, group several Little Devil Ninebarks together to form a hedge or privacy screen. This not only provides year-round interest but also creates a natural barrier that enhances the privacy and tranquility of your outdoor living spaces. Their uniform growth and color make them an excellent choice for adding structure and coherence to the landscape.
In a modern garden setting, Little Devil Ninebark's clean lines and bold color provide a striking focal point, complementing minimalist designs.
Its flowers and seed heads attract pollinators and birds, making it a valuable addition to gardens designed to support wildlife.
The shrub's charming flowers and rustic appeal fit perfectly into the relaxed, densely planted style of cottage gardens.
Surround a patio or seating area with Little Devil Ninebark for a cozy, enclosed feeling enhanced by the shrub’s rich foliage.
Use it as a dramatic accent in a container garden, where its compact size and striking color can be appreciated up close.
Incorporate Little Devil Ninebark into a mixed shrub border for seasonal interest, with its foliage, flowers, and seed heads providing color and texture throughout the year.
In spring, Little Devil Ninebark bursts into life with clusters of pinkish-white flowers, heralding the start of the growing season.
Throughout the summer, its deep burgundy leaves stand out in the garden, especially striking under the bright sun.
As fall approaches, the foliage may deepen in color, and red seed heads add another layer of interest to the autumn garden.
Even in winter, the bare, arching branches of Little Devil Ninebark add structure and interest to the landscape, especially when dusted with snow.
Opt for a spot that receives full sun to part shade to maximize the vibrant foliage color and overall health of Little Devil Ninebark.
Prefers full sun for optimal growth and foliage color but can tolerate partial shade, though bloom and color may be reduced.
Thrives in a wide range of soil types, provided they are well-draining. Tolerant of both dry and moist conditions.
Plant 3 to 5 feet apart to allow room for growth and air circulation, minimizing the risk of disease.
Early spring or fall are ideal times, allowing the plant to establish itself during cooler weather.
Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball, place the plant, backfill, and water thoroughly.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system, then reduce frequency; drought-tolerant once established.
Apply a general-purpose fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and flowering.
Prune lightly in late winter to early spring to shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Mulch to retain moisture, fertilize for the growing season, and prune as needed for shape.
Water during prolonged dry spells. Monitor for pests and diseases, though Little Devil Ninebark is generally resistant.
Prepare the plant for winter with a final check for pests and diseases; reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy.
Little to no care needed; assess and remove any damaged branches before spring.
It grows at a moderate rate, reaching its mature size of 3 to 4 feet tall and wide within a few years.
Yes, it’s considered deer resistant, making it a great choice for gardens in areas with deer pressure.
Absolutely! Its compact size makes it suitable for container gardening, adding versatility to its placement in the landscape.
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