Botanical profile

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Alouette'

Latin name
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Alouette'
Common name
Physocarpus 'Alouette'
Type
Shrub
Family
Rosaceae

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Alouette', known as 'Alouette' ninebark, is a deciduous ornamental shrub prized for its compact habit and rich purple foliage. This variety forms a dense, rounded bush that easily integrates into shrub beds, structured borders, and decorative hedges. Its finely cut foliage emerges in spring in deep purplish-red hues that maintain their intensity throughout the season. In early summer, the shrub produces small pinkish-white flowers clustered in rounded corymbs, elegantly contrasting with the dark foliage and attracting pollinators. After flowering, small decorative reddish fruits appear, extending the plant's visual appeal. Very hardy and easy to maintain, this ninebark tolerates ordinary soils, urban conditions, and cold climates well.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate, tolerates drought well once established
Fertilization
Compost in spring, undemanding
Soil type
Well-drained, tolerates various soils
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Summer
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Decorative reddish berries in clusters
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Dense and round
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
4.9 ft (1.5 m)
Width
4.9 ft (1.5 m)
Growth rate
Moderate
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.