The colors below indicate the kind of documentation available for this species
in the California counties where it occurs.
Ninebark Physocarpus capitatus (Rosaceae)
The species has a distinctive pattern of peeling bark that accounts for its common name. Ninebark belongs to the rose family which includes a cornucopia of economically important plants. Apples, cherries, pears, peaches, apricots, almonds, and quince are a few of the useful members of this family. Fruit types in the Rosaceae range from pomes (apples) and drupes (cherries) to achenes (strawberries) and follicles. The fruit of Ninebark is an inflated follicle which is a dry few-seeded fruit that releases it seeds along two lateral sutures. Ninebark puts on a spectacular summer show with large umbel-like clusters of white flowers that are followed by vibrant clusters of red fruits.
DISTRIBUTION: Moist banks, north-facing slopes, and coniferous forests throughout the Calif. Floristic Province (except Great Central Valley); < 1400 m.
