Pink Fivecorner is a flowering plant native to the southwestern United States, particularly found in the arid regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. Scientifically known as Physocarpus capitatus, it belongs to the Rosaceae family and is commonly referred to as Pacific ninebark.
Pink Fivecorner is a deciduous shrub that typically grows up to 6 feet tall, forming dense thickets due to its tendency to produce numerous upright stems. Its name originates from the distinctive five-sided shape of its fruit capsules, which are pinkish-red in color. The plant has a compact form with multiple branches, adorned with serrated, toothed leaves that display varying hues from deep green to bronze.
In spring or early summer, Pink Fivecorner blossoms with clusters of delicate, star-shaped, pale pink to white flowers, attracting pollinators such as butterflies and bees. These flowers give way to the aforementioned fruit capsules, which persist on the plant until autumn. During this season, the foliage transitions to vibrant shades of yellow, offering an additional aesthetic appeal.
Pink Fivecorner is highly adaptable and can thrive in a wide range of soil conditions, from well-drained sandy soils to heavy clay. It is also known for its ability to withstand drought conditions once established, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and water-wise landscaping projects.
Due to its resilience and ornamental features, Pink Fivecorner is often cultivated for its attractive flowers and foliage in gardens and landscapes. In the wild, it plays a valuable role in ecosystem conservation by providing habitat and food for various native bird species and small mammals.
