Common Ninebark is a native shrub of stream banks and rocky hillsides with distinctive peeling, layered bark in shades of brown and tan—the nine bark of its name. It produces white or pink flower clusters in May that attract many native bee species. The inflated seed capsules persist through winter and provide some seeds for birds.
Best time to see a Common Ninebark
The best time to see a Common Ninebark is May–July, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 5,266 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Common Ninebark? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Common Ninebark sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Common Ninebark? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Common Ninebark is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love plants? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.