Mallow Ninebark

Physocarpus malvaceus

Rosaceae

• Keystone plant
• Spokane Native
• Sun-Part Shade
• Size: 6’ x 6’
• Fruit: follicles (dry capsules)
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
• Evergreen: no
• Flower Color: white (June - July)
• Wildlife Value: provides habitat for birds and mammals

Deciduous shrub with upright to vase-shaped habit. Attractive cinnamon-colored peeling bark provides year-round interest. Thrives in dry, rocky soils but adaptable to various soil types. Height typically 2-7 feet, depending on site conditions. Tolerates full sun to part shade but prefers some protection in hot, dry locations.

Rounded clusters of small white flowers create a delicate display in early summer. Leaves are small (1-2 inches), resembling grape or currant leaves, with 3-5 shallow lobes and toothed margins. Foliage is bright green through summer, turning brilliant shades of red to rose-brown in fall. The exfoliating bark becomes more pronounced with age, adding winter texture. Often brings on fall color early during drought stress, a natural adaptation to summer heat.

Forms dense thickets that provide excellent cover and nesting sites for birds and small mammals. Flowers attract native bees and other pollinators. Browsed occasionally by wildlife. Regenerates vigorously after fire, making it valuable for post-fire restoration. Associated with diverse plant communities including ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir forests. Commonly found growing alongside Ocean Spray (Holodiscus discolor), Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia), and Snowberry (Symphoricarpos species).

Excellent understory shrub for woodland gardens or naturalized plantings beneath established trees. Perfect for creating layered plantings and adding texture to native landscapes. Ideal for dry, rocky slopes and canyon sites where it thrives with minimal care. Works well in hedgerows, informal screens, or mass plantings. Suitable for erosion control on banks and hillsides. Provides multi-season interest with spring flowers, summer foliage, fall color, and winter bark. Native wildtype plants offer superior nectar resources compared to cultivated purple-leaf varieties.