Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Rosaceae

Genus:

Physocarpus

Species:

Physocarpus alternans

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub

Height:

4-6 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jun, jul

Bloom Colors:

White, Pink

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Native Range

United States: California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to rocky slopes and arid regions