Amber Jubilee™ Ninebark - Tree Form

Amber Jubilee™ Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius 'Jefam') in tree form is a compact, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub that's been trained into a small tree. This particular variety of Ninebark is renowned for its vibrant foliage, which displays a unique blend of colors. In the spring, new growth emerges in shades of orange, yellow, and gold, creating a stunning contrast with older leaves, which turn to hues of rich purple and red in the fall. The colorful foliage display offers a year-round visual interest that makes Amber Jubilee a standout in any garden setting.

This tree form of Ninebark has an average height of around 6 to 8 feet, with a similar spread. It has a rounded form, and with the multi-stemmed trunk, it gives an almost sculptural element to the garden. This plant also has exfoliating bark that peels away in layers to reveal a lighter color underneath, a characteristic that adds another layer of interest, especially during the winter months.

In terms of blooms, Amber Jubilee produces clusters of delicate white or pinkish-white flowers in late spring or early summer. These flowers often attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, adding to the plant's environmental value. Following the flowers, red fruit, which often persists into winter, attracts birds.

The Amber Jubilee™ Ninebark in tree form is a hardy plant, able to tolerate a range of soil conditions, from clay to sandy and loam. It is also highly resistant to most pests and diseases and is drought-tolerant once established. It's an excellent choice for those who desire a low-maintenance but visually striking addition to their landscape.

The Amber Jubilee™ Ninebark - Tree Form, with its vibrant foliage and compact form, is versatile in landscaping applications. Here are some ways it can be incorporated into your outdoor spaces:

1. Specimen Plant: Due to its colorful and changing foliage, as well as its unique form, Amber Jubilee Ninebark works well as a specimen or focal plant. It can add a pop of color and visual interest to any part of the landscape.
2. Border Plantings: This plant can serve as an excellent border plant. Its colorful foliage and flowers can provide a visual barrier or delineation between different parts of a garden or property.
3. Group Plantings: When planted in groups, Amber Jubilee Ninebark can create a vibrant display, especially when its colors change with the seasons. This usage is great for adding a burst of color to wide, open areas.
4. Privacy Screens: Because of its height and spread, Amber Jubilee Ninebark can be used to form a natural privacy screen or windbreak when planted in a row or group.
5. Mixed Shrub Borders: This plant's unique color and form make it a good choice for mixed shrub borders, where it can add visual interest among other evergreen and deciduous shrubs.
6. Wildlife Gardens: Its flowers attract pollinators, and its fruits draw birds, making Amber Jubilee a great addition to wildlife or pollinator gardens.
7. Containers: Given its compact size, Amber Jubilee Ninebark can also be grown in large containers. This allows it to be featured on patios, balconies, or other outdoor living spaces where ground planting isn't an option.
8. Erosion Control: This hardy plant's robust root system can help control erosion on slopes and embankments.

The Amber Jubilee™ Ninebark - Tree Form is an ideal choice for many landscaping uses due to its attractive and ever-changing colors, compact size, hardiness, and overall versatility.

Planting and taking care of the Amber Jubilee™ Ninebark - Tree Form is relatively straightforward given its hardy nature. Here are some guidelines:

Planting

1. Location: Choose a location with full sun to part shade. Although Ninebark can tolerate a variety of light conditions, the best foliage color is achieved with plenty of sunlight.
2. Soil: Plant in well-drained soil. Amber Jubilee Ninebark can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.
3. Spacing: Ensure that you provide adequate space for the plant to grow. Given its mature size (6 to 8 feet in both height and spread), it should ideally be placed about 5 to 7 feet away from other large plants or structures.

Care

1. Watering: Water regularly after planting to help establish the root system. Although the plant is drought-tolerant once established, it will appreciate consistent moisture, especially during dry periods.
2. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant. This helps conserve soil moisture and keep the root system cool. Be sure not to mound mulch against the trunk as this can encourage rot.
3. Pruning: Ninebark in general, and the Amber Jubilee variety specifically, have a naturally pleasing shape and don't require much pruning. If necessary, pruning can be done to maintain size or remove dead or damaged branches. The best time for this is late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
4. Fertilizing: Although not strictly necessary, an annual application of a balanced slow-release fertilizer in the spring can promote vigorous growth and improve foliage color.
5. Pests and Diseases: Amber Jubilee Ninebark is resistant to most common pests and diseases. Monitor the plant regularly and deal with any potential issues promptly to keep it healthy.

Remember, the best defense against plant disease and pests is maintaining the overall health of the plant, which can be achieved by providing the appropriate care for the plant based on its specific needs.