Ninebark

Ninebark
(Physocarpus malvaceus)

This small shrub gets it common name because of its bark, which shreds and peels off readily in several layers. The species name malvaceus means that the leaves resemble those of the Mallow Family.

It grows in rich moist soil along the streamsides in our canyons.

The flowers occur in rounded clumps at the ends of the branches, later maturing to dry papery fruits.