Physocarpus Diabolo Ninebark – Dark Purple Foliage Hardy Perennial Shrub

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' is a stunning deciduous shrub prized for its rich, deep purple foliage that holds its colour throughout the growing season. In early to mid-summer, clusters of delicate pink-white flowers appear against the dark leaves, creating a striking contrast that adds real drama to any garden setting. As the flowers fade, small reddish seed heads develop, extending the seasonal interest well into autumn. The peeling, exfoliating bark provides additional winter texture, making this a true multi-season performer.

This vigorous and reliable shrub is an excellent choice for mixed borders, specimen planting, informal hedging or as a bold focal point in larger containers. 'Diabolo' is fully hardy, low-maintenance and adaptable to a wide range of soil types, thriving in both full sun and partial shade – though the deepest purple foliage colour is achieved in a sunny position.

Supplied as an established plant in a 3 litre pot, ready for planting straight into the garden or a generous container.

Cultural Information:

• Botanical Name: Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' (syn. 'Monlo')


• Common Names: Ninebark, Diabolo Ninebark, Common Ninebark


• Classification: Deciduous Shrub


• Fully Grown Height & Spread: 200–300 cm × 200–300 cm


• Growth Habit: Bushy, Upright to Arching Deciduous Shrub


• Perfect For: Borders, Specimen Planting, Informal Hedging, Large Containers


• Flowering Time: Early to Mid-Summer (clusters of pink-white flowers)


• Planting Position: Full Sun to Partial Shade (best foliage colour in full sun)


• Soil: Moist, Well-Drained – Tolerates a Wide Range of Soil Types


• Hardiness: Fully Hardy (RHS H7)


• Attracts: Bees, Butterflies & Pollinators


• Type: Hardy Deciduous Shrub


• Foliage: Deep Purple to Dark Burgundy, Lobed Leaves


• Bark: Attractive Peeling, Exfoliating Bark for Winter Interest


• Pruning: Prune After Flowering if Required – Responds Well to Hard Pruning for Rejuvenation


• RHS Award: Holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM)

What's Included:

• 1 x Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' plant supplied in a 3 litre pot

Notes: Available in the Diabolo variety, renowned for its exceptionally dark purple foliage. Foliage colour may appear more green in heavily shaded positions; for the deepest, richest purple tones, plant in a position that receives plenty of direct sunlight.