Ninebark 'Dart's Gold'

Ninebark 'Dart's Gold' (Physocarpus opulifolius 'Dart's Gold') is a patch of gold that glows in the garden from spring to autumn. The maple-like three-lobed leaves open a bright lemon-gold, soften to light lime by midsummer, and turn yellow with a warm bronze wash in autumn.

The bush is cushion-shaped and densely clothed with foliage right to the ground: in five to ten years it makes 1.5-2.5 m in height and width, staying tidier than the wild species. Plant it as a bright counterpoint to purple-leaved cultivars such as 'Diabolo' and to dark conifers, in mixed groups, hedges and on banks. In April and May white flushed pink corymbs join in.

Key characteristics:

• What makes it special: The bark of mature branches peels off in strips to reveal reddish-brown layers, so the shrub stays interesting even bare.
• Dimensions: By 10 years it grows to 1.5-2.5 m tall and just as wide.
• Hardiness: It withstands down to -40 °C (USDA zone 3).
• Flowering: In April-May the bush is covered with flat corymbs of 3-5 cm, white with a soft pink tint.
• Light: In full sun the foliage glows at its brightest, and in a hot climate the bush is grateful for afternoon shade.
• Soil: It takes any slightly acidic, well-drained garden soil easily, from dry to moderately moist.
• Watering: Water moderately or sparingly: the cultivar handles drought well, but it does not like standing moisture.
• Care: Prune right after flowering and no later than mid-August, cutting out spent stems and thinning the bush.
• Landscape use: An ornament of flower borders and cottage gardens, masses in shrub plantings, hedges, and holding slopes.
• Origin: The cultivar holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.