Quick answer: Common ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) is native to 30 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Eric Hunt, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Low water, Dry-Wet |
| Soil | Clay, loam, circumneutral pH |
| Bloom | Bloom May-Jun |
| Height | 3-10 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts birds, special value to native and honey bees |
none noted (occurs as an escape northeastward beyond native range NY to MN/SD southward)
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Common ninebark
Where is Common ninebark native?
Common ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) is native to 30 states across the Northeast, Midwest, South and West. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Common ninebark bloom?
Common ninebark blooms May-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Common ninebark need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Low water, Dry-Wet. Soil: Clay, loam, circumneutral pH. Mature height: 3-10 ft tall.
Is Common ninebark good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts birds, special value to native and honey bees.
Is Common ninebark deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Common ninebark is drought-tolerant, tolerates shade and handles wet soil.
Where can I buy real Common ninebark seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Physocarpus opulifolius on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Common ninebark.
- Common elderberry Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis
- Great blue lobelia Lobelia siphilitica
- Common evening primrose Oenothera biennis
- Steeplebush Spiraea tomentosa
- Southern arrowwood Viburnum dentatum
- Common hoptree Ptelea trifoliata
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.