Physocarpus opulifolius Magic Ball - Ninebark

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Magic Ball' is a very recent variety of viburnum-leaved Physocarpus that is distinguished by the constantly changing colouration of its foliage. This compact little shrub opens its first leaves in beautiful orange tones, then they evolve into green and golden yellow before turning red, or even brown, in autumn. This constant spectacle is further enhanced by a charming flowering in white-pink corymbs in June, followed by decorative red fruits. Very hardy, equally at ease in a diverse bed or cultivated in a pot, this Physocarpus will grow in full sun or partial shade, in slightly acidic to neutral soil that is not too dry.

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Magic Ball' belongs to the large and important family of Rosaceae, which blesses us with so many ornamental species (Roses, of course, but also Photinia, Cotoneaster, Amelanchier...) as well as most of our temperate climate fruit trees (Pear, Apple, Cherry, Peach, Apricot, Plum...), not to mention numerous wild plants in our countryside and forests. The species-type Physocarpus opulifolius is native to the eastern United States, and widespread up to Quebec and Manitoba. It is a moderate-sized shrub (1 to 3m (3 to 10ft) tall) that adapts to a wide range of edaphic conditions (soil types) and climates. Furthermore, it is a very hardy species, not surprising that it has given rise to numerous ornamental varieties given its robust qualities.

'Magic Ball' arrived on the market in 2021 and stands out for the color variations of its foliage. This compact shrub forms a dense tuft of about 1.20m (4ft) in all directions, and a maximum of 1.50m (5ft). It bears leaves that are quite deeply divided into 3 lobes, one central and two smaller lateral ones, with a doubly dentate lamina. When they appear in spring, they have a slightly wrinkled appearance that is absolutely charming, and above all, a bright orange colour that arouses astonishment. Then they evolve into a golden yellow with sometimes touches of green during the summer, before turning red in autumn, sometimes ending up purple-brown, to finish the season in beauty. In June, small white-pink flowers appear in corymbs of about 5cm (2in) in diameter, which contrast well with the colourful foliage. These nectar-bearing flowers then produce decorative red fruits. This little Physocarpus thus provides a constantly renewing spectacle for the pleasure of the eyes in the garden. It is also possible to enjoy it on a terrace as its limited growth and ability to withstand pruning easily allow it to be cultivated in a container. In open ground, it should be placed in a sunny or partially shaded location, in soil that is not too dry or too chalky. Once well-rooted, it is however quite resistant to drought but will always be more beautiful with regular watering. It is an easy-to-grow and extremely hardy shrub (approximately -28°C (1°F)), which can find its place in all gardens, no matter how small.

Physocarpus 'Magic Ball', very compact, will be an attractive feature in a bed, thanks to its changing colours. In a small garden, you can associate it with other compact plants to create an inspiring scene all year round. The superb red and violet bells of Fuchsia magellanica 'Riccartonii' will take over from its summer flowering, while the green foliage of this shrub will contrast well with the colours of 'Magic Ball'. The pink and fluffy plumes of Cotinus coggygria 'Young Lady' will also accompany our little Physocarpus throughout the summer, and to animate the winter, think of evergreens with decorative foliage, such as the classic Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald Gaiety', whose green leaves edged in white sometimes turn pink in the winter cold.

The name Physocarpus opulifolius comes from the Greek 'phusa', which means air bubble or vesicle, and 'karpos', which refers to the fruit, in reference to the shape of the fruit. The resemblance of its foliage to that of Viburnum opulus earned it its specific name "opulifolius". Introduced to Europe around 1687, the many colorful cultivars that have been created in recent years have allowed it to make a strong comeback in gardens.