Calico Kitty Ninebark was selected for its reliable, symmetrical form and vibrant leaves. The colorful foliage ranges from orange to burgundy, providing a brilliant backdrop for the reliable repeat blooming of its blush white flowers, first in late spring and then again in terminal clusters on the new growth. The attractive serrated, lobed leaves turn a deeper purple in fall. The name Ninebark refers to the purportedly nine layers of the tan colored bark, which peel away from the stems creating garden interest even after the leaves fall. This variety of Ninebark shows a marked resistance to powdery mildew,
Conditions: Sun to part shade; adaptable from dry to moist soil conditions; tolerant of urban conditions
Size: 4'-5' tall, 3'-4’ wide
Zone: 3 - 7
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract short- and long-tongued bees, wasps, beetles, butterflies and flies; seed capsules provide food for birds and small mammals; may not be a larval host due to the anthocyanin in the colorful leaves, though green varieties of Ninebark can support 34 species of Lepidoptera; may be browsed by deer
Photo: F. D. Richards