Pacific Ninebark

Many layers of papery bark give this hardy shrub its distinctive name. Of the many native plants on the median, the Ninebark has perhaps the largest range in the wild. It can be found as far north as southern Alaska, and as far south as central California. It does well in moist swampy areas and especially streambanks. It also manages pretty well in the dry areas east of the Cascades, and into Idaho. Come during the late spring and early summer (May to July)  to see clusters of delicate white flowers, and the many birds and insects that follow. If you miss that, this lanky deciduous shrub has a lovely fall color.