Physocarpus Opulifolius Little Angel Ninebark

Physocarpus Opulifolius Little Angel is a deciduous shrub with orange-red leaves, small cream flowers and good autumn colour. It suits low maintenance and wildlife friendly gardens. Quite low-growing with a neat habit, it reached a max of 1.5 metres tall. 

Physocarpus Opulifolius are tough shrubs native to North America. They are better known as Ninebark for their mature peeling branches and they grow in a variety of situations including dry open spaces and cliffs. Little Angel is a small cultivar that suits UK gardens. It’s better known as Ninebark Little Angel. It has glossy orangey-red ovate leaves which mature to dark red in autumn. Foliage falls in winter, but returns in midspring with small creamy white flowers that pollinators adore. Flowers mature into red berries which turn black in late autumn.

This is a versatile shrub that brings jewel tones to borders and plant containers throughout spring and autumn.

Height and Spread of Physocarpus Opulifolius Little Angel
Ninebark Little Angel is an upright bushy shrub that will reach a maximum height and spread of 1.5 metres.

How Hardy Is Physocarpus Opulifolius Little Angel
Ninebark Little Angel is a tough shrub that will easily withstand UK winters if its roots are well drained. Once established it can withstand sub-zero degrees, drought, and is rarely bothered by pests or disease.

How To Use Physocarpus Opulifolius Little Angel
Ninebark Little Angel brings rich tones to a green foliage border and is low maintenance enough for the busiest of gardeners. Its modern red foliage suits urban spaces and the flowers and fruits benefit wildlife.

Ninebark Little Angel will grow in a well-watered and fed plant pot or container on a sunny balcony garden or a patio and brings extra interest to the front garden.

How To Care For Physocarpus Opulifolius Little Angel
Little attention is needed once Ninebark little Angel is established. It will grow in the majority of soils without fuss and prefers full sun over shade.

You can leave it to grow in its naturally upright bushy shape, or you can prune it in winter to remove dead or crossed branches. Thin out Ninebark Little Angel by removing older canes and cut back branches by a third but be aware this shrub flowers on the previous season’s growth.

Mulch in spring and water until established.