Ninebark

This is a tall bushy North American shrub with attractive brown stems, mahogany when young, and large rich green leaves. It is very hardy and tolerates most soils, although too much chalk turns the leaves yellow. The garden form 'Dart's Gold' is a naturally golden yellow foliage plant, making a smaller, bushier shrub than its parent. The colour is outstanding and lasts most of the season, although it can bleach or scorch in full sun and turn greenish in full shade. Regular pruning encourages young growth with the best colour. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its Award of Garden Merit.