How to Grow Ninebark Little Devil

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Ninebark Little Devil

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Little Devil'

shrub

Little Devil is a compact deciduous shrub prized for its deep burgundy foliage that maintains rich color throughout the growing season. It produces delicate white to pale pink flowers in late spring, followed by ornamental seed pods. This cultivar is a smaller version of the species, making it ideal for borders, containers, and small gardens.

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Example Ninebark Little Devil timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Ninebark Little Devil
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
Harvest Ninebark Little Devil
Late summer into fall

Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ninebark Little Devil dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun to part shade; 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily for best foliage color

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Water: Moderate watering; drought tolerant once established. Water deeply during establishment period and in extended dry spells. Reduce watering in fall to harden off growth.

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Spacing: 24 inches

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Days to maturity: N/A (ornamental shrub)

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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as container; top of root ball level with soil surface

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy soil, tolerates poor soil conditions

pH: 5.5-7.5

Amendments:

Compost at planting Mulch to retain moisture

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 2-7, highly cold hardy

2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b

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Growth Stages

Planting & Establishment

4-8 weeks

Young shrub with small burgundy leaves; root system developing

Water regularly to establish deep roots. Mulch around base. Plant in spring or fall for best results.

Vegetative Growth

Spring through early summer

Compact mounding form develops, foliage deepens in color, branches fill out

Provide consistent moisture. Minimal pruning needed. Full sun enhances burgundy coloration.

Flowering

Late May through June

Small white to pale pink flowers appear in dense clusters at branch tips

No special care needed. Flowers attract pollinators. Can deadhead spent flowers if desired.

Fruiting & Summer

July through September

Ornamental seed pods develop where flowers were; foliage remains vibrant burgundy

Seed pods add visual interest through summer and into fall. Maintain moderate watering.

Fall & Dormancy

October through March

Foliage may show bronze or burgundy tones; plant slows growth and prepares for winter

Reduce watering. Light pruning in early spring if needed for shape. Extremely cold hardy; no protection required.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Russian sage Purple coneflower Black-eyed Susan Sedum Juniper Daylilies Ornamental grasses Coral bells

Avoid planting near:

Dense shade-casting trees Plants requiring consistent moisture in hot, dry locations

Common Pests

Monitor for skeletonized leaves; remove affected foliage, prune to improve air circulation, spray with neem oil if severe
Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, apply fungicide if necessary; generally not a major issue on well-sited plants
Spray with strong water stream, use insecticidal soap, or encourage natural predators like ladybugs

Uses

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Landscape & Ornamental Specimen

Household

Little Devil serves as an excellent accent plant for borders, containers, and foundation plantings. Its compact size (3-4 feet tall and wide) and striking burgundy foliage provide year-round visual interest without requiring heavy maintenance. [source]

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Pollinator Support

Wildlife

The spring flowers attract bees and other beneficial pollinators, providing early-season nectar and pollen. Birds may forage on seeds in late summer and fall. [source]

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Cut Arrangements & Decorative Branches

Craft

Branches with burgundy foliage and seed pods can be cut for fresh or dried floral arrangements. The interesting branching structure and pod formations add texture to decorative displays. [source]

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Container Growing

Household

The dwarf habit makes Little Devil perfect for pots and containers on patios, decks, or balconies. Container-grown plants can be moved to protected locations in extreme cold if desired. [source]

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Low-Maintenance Native Alternative

Household

As a hardy cultivar of a native North American shrub, Ninebark Little Devil is a sustainable, drought-tolerant choice that supports local ecosystems while reducing maintenance requirements. [source]

Harvest Tips

This is an ornamental shrub; not harvested for food. Prune lightly in early spring to maintain compact form. Can be cut for decorative branches in spring/summer. Seed pods can be collected in fall for ornamental use.

Fun Facts

🌱 The common name 'Ninebark' refers to the exfoliating bark that peels away in nine layers, creating an attractive texture in winter when foliage has dropped.
🌱 Little Devil maintains its deep burgundy foliage color best in full sun; in shade, the leaves may fade to green.
🌱 Ninebark is highly adaptable and can tolerate poor, dry soils that would challenge many ornamental shrubs, making it ideal for difficult garden locations.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Cultivar Deadhead Full Sun Mulch

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