Little Devil Ninebark

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-4 Feet

Mature Spread

3-4 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Ninebark is a fantastic shrub to add 4 seasons of interest to your garden. Unfortunately most varieties of Common NInebark are just too large and gangly to fit into smaller gardens. Little Devil™ Common Ninebark solves that problem. This one has a much more compact and upright shape that doesn't require much for pruning or maintenance. Unlike the native Ninebarks, this Dwarf variety can be used up close to a house, along a driveway or sidewalk or in other small spaces that the larger version would never fit into.

Ninebarks are a true wildlife attracting plant. The flowers bloom for a long time in early summer, while the branches and foliage provide shelter and nesting for birds and other small animals. Little Devil™ Common Ninebark mixes into the shrub border wonderfully. Its deep burgundy foliage contrasts with the other green foliage and can be used as a dramatic focal point.

Little Devil™ Common Ninebark Care

Ninebark likes to have acidic soil that is also fertile and rich. An annual mulching with organic compost or leaves will help to boost water retention and fertility in the soil. Watering with soaker hoses or drip irrigation helps to keep the foliage dry and reduce infections of fungus and mildew. Full sun to part shade is needed for the foliage to keep its intense color all summer. Fertilizing with a well balanced, slow release feed is needed every 2-3 years.

Pruning is only done late in the winter. Cutting out the dead, diseased, dying and diagonal branches will help Little Devil™ to keep its compact shape. Ninebark is very tolerant of pollution and urban settings. Deer and rabbit resistant. Seaside salt spray and wind are not a challenge for this hardworking deciduous shrub. 

Little Devil™ Common Ninebark Spacing

Little Devil™ reaches a mature height and width of 3-4 feet. Spacing is recommended at 4 feet on center when planting as an informal hedge or in groups. Container growing Little Devil™ is very effective for small gardens or decks and porches. Using a pot at least 24 inches in diameter is recommended if planting as a specimen.