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Description
Physocarpus Opulifolius Dart’s Gold is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is known for its golden foliage that emerges in the spring and turns a bright greenish-yellow in the summer. In the fall, the leaves turn a reddish-orange color. The plant produces small clusters of white flowers in the late spring and early summer, which are followed by small red fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Physocarpus |
Appearance
Physocarpus Opulifolius Dart’s Gold grows up to 6 feet tall and wide. It has a mounded shape with arching branches. The leaves are 3-5 lobed and are a golden color when they first emerge in the spring. They turn a bright greenish-yellow in the summer and a reddish-orange in the fall. The flowers are small and white, and they are followed by small red fruits.
Care Guide
Physocarpus Opulifolius Dart’s Gold prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought tolerant once established but should be watered regularly during its first growing season. Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. This shrub is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Physocarpus Opulifolius Dart’s Gold is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and fire blight. These can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Physocarpus Opulifolius Dart’s Gold is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including stream banks, wooded areas, and open fields.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Physocarpus Opulifolius Dart’s Gold?
A: Water regularly during its first growing season, then only as needed.
Q: Can Physocarpus Opulifolius Dart’s Gold be grown in containers?
A: Yes, but it will need to be watered more frequently and may not grow as large as it would in the ground.
Q: Does Physocarpus Opulifolius Dart’s Gold attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant’s small red fruits are attractive to birds and other wildlife.
Q: How tall does Physocarpus Opulifolius Dart’s Gold grow?
A: It can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
- Physocarpus Opulifolius Summer Wine
- Physocarpus Opulifolius Tiny Wine
- Physocarpus Opulifolius Diabolo
- Physocarpus Opulifolius Amber Jubilee
References
- “Physocarpus opulifolius Dart’s Gold.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b785.
- “Physocarpus opulifolius.” Plant Database, University of Connecticut, www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/p/phyopd/phyopd1.html.
- “Gold-Leaf Ninebark, Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Dart’s Gold’.” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1075/.
