Mountain ninebark is a deciduous shrub that is native to the western parts of the US, where it is found in shady slopes and north-facing canyons. Ninebark is named for its peeling bark on mature branches which reveal lighter bark underneath, although this is only noticeable in winter when the leaves have fallen. In late spring it bears clusters of small pink or white flowers. The dull green leaves turn yellow in the fall. Mountain ninebark grows to a height of 4 feet and a width of 6 feet and can develop tangled branches. The plant can be pruned after flowering or cut right back in late winter.

Ninebark is a tough plant and can withstand many gardening challenges such as drought, clay soil, and rocky soil, and is suitable for use in stabilizing eroded slopes. It is also useful as a screen or hedge and in native plant gardens.