Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Aurea’ (syn. ‘Luteus’) – 'Aurea' is my favorite Ninebark cultivar. Why? The golden foliage is sun-proof, it doesn’t burn. Brilliant golden leaves will turn a light bright yellow-green in summer though in full blazing sun the outermost leaves tend to hold onto yellow tone. This form tends to grow wider than tall – unusual in that most Ninebarks are upright and somewhat vase-shaped. And the autumn color? It’s a fluorescent combination of orange, gold, red, scarlet, coral and occasionally purple. White 2” corymbs are showy followed by reddish pink seed heads that linger long at the ends of branches. The winter affect is somewhat coarse but can contrast nicely with other deciduous plants and especially evergreens; the light brown bark does exfoliate and the seed pods are persistent. This is an adaptable low maintenance shrub that will even develop good autumn tones in some shade though more brilliant colors are assured in sunnier sites. And this selection has very good mildew resistance. We may prune this judiciously so that you will not incur an extra handling charge. And you may cut it back in the late winter to encourage a shorter brilliant yellow shrub. If purchased in autumn these will arrive partially pruned. Established potted Ninebark, cutting grown.