Pruning Physocarpus 'Diablo'

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diablo' is in my opinion, a first rate foliage shrub. It was discovered as a chance seedling in a batch of Physocarpus plants. Its rich coppery purple foliage adds a bit of excitement to borders and its generally trouble-free constitution is an added bonus.

The plant produces small clusters of flowers in spring followed by red berries. Although these flowers are attractive, they are not the main feature of the plant. I advocate hard pruning of all stems in March to get maximum foliage effect but if you want to retain the flowers and fruits, cut back a selection (say a third) of shoots at ground level to encourage vigour but keep some flowering wood. The fruits are eaten by birds.

A few stems of this plant can be cut back in autumn and made into hardwood cuttings that can be rooted outdoors or in a cold frame. This is a good idea as I find the plant somewhat short-lived. The fast growing nature of this plant makes it an ideal 'filler' for borders before the permanent plants become established. 

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diablo'. Rich foliage colour on a hard pruned plant.