Red Baron Ninebark

Red Baron ninebark is a deciduous shrub valued for dark red foliage, red stems, peeling bark, and clusters of pinkish white flowers in early summer. It forms a rounded, suckering plant that adds seasonal color and structure to a mixed border or informal screen. ## Size and Placement Plan for about 5–8 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide as the shrub matures. Give it enough space to reach its mature size, or use light thinning to keep the shrub within a border. Full sun brings out the strongest foliage color, while partial shade is suitable where some loss of color is acceptable. ## Soil and Seasonal Interest Red Baron grows in clay, loam, or sandy soil and prefers moist but well drained conditions. Its foliage and flowers create summer interest, with small red fruit and exfoliating bark extending the display later in the year. A U.S. nursery listing gives this cultivar a hardiness range of USDA zones 2a–7b. ## Maintenance Thin a few of the oldest stems when needed to maintain a balanced framework and encourage fresh growth. Avoid frequent shearing if the natural rounded form is desired. [RHS plant profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/325318/physocarpus-opulifolius-red-baron/details) · [SiteOne product profile](https://www.siteone.com/en/89833b-physocarpus-opulifolius-red-baron-ninebark/p/866115)