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Physocarpus malvaceus (Greene) Kuntze

Mallow ninebark, Mallow-leaf ninebark

Rosaceae (Rose Family)

USDA Symbol: PHMA5

USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.

Mallow-leaf ninebark is a 1 1/2-6 ft., vase-shaped, deciduous shrub with exfoliating bark and foliage resembling small grape or currant leaves. Tiny, white flowers occur in loose, rounded clusters. Fall foliage ranges from intense red to subtle rose-brown.

Mallow Ninebark is a member of the rose family (family Rosaceae) which includes herbs, shrubs, and trees with mostly prickly stems.

 

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Plant Characteristics

Duration: Perennial
Habit: Shrub
Size Class: 3-6 ft.
Leaf Color: Green

Bloom Information

Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Jun , Jul

Distribution

USA: CO , ID , MT , NV , OR , UT , WA , WY
Canada: BC
Native Distribution: E. of the Cascades from s.c. B.C. to c. OR, e. to s.w. Alt., WY & UT
Native Habitat: Dry canyon bottoms, rocky hillsides & yellow pine/Douglas fir forests
USDA Native Status: L48(N), CAN(N)

Growing Conditions

Water Use: Low
Light Requirement: Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Dry
CaCO3 Tolerance: High
Soil Description: Drier, rocky soils.
Conditions Comments: Not Available

Benefit

Conspicuous Flowers: yes
Fragrant Flowers: yes

Propagation

Description: Easy to start from semi-hardwood cuttings with or without hormone treatment. Slow to start from fall-sown seed.
Seed Collection: Ripe fruits can be picked from the shrub or shaken onto a drop cloth.
Seed Treatment: Seeds require no special treatment.
Commercially Avail: yes
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Recommended Species Lists

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Additional resources

USDA: Find Physocarpus malvaceus in USDA Plants
FNA: Find Physocarpus malvaceus in the Flora of North America (if available)
Google: Search Google for Physocarpus malvaceus

Metadata

Record Modified: 2007-01-01
Research By: TWC Staff

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