Diabolo Ninebark

Plant in spring or fall, spacing 6–8 feet apart. Diabolo is one of the most striking native shrubs for foliage color, with deep, glossy, wine-purple leaves that hold their color excellently through the growing season. It adapts to a wide range of soils including poor, clay, and dry conditions. Dig the planting hole to the depth of the root ball and water well. No special soil preparation is needed.

Prune in early spring, cutting stems back by one-third to one-half to promote the vigorous new growth that produces the best foliage color. Avoid pruning in summer or fall. Very drought tolerant and cold-hardy once established. The white spring flowers and reddish seedpods provide additional seasonal interest. No regular fertilizing is needed. One of the most widely planted and reliable foliage shrubs for sunny, mixed borders.