Physocarpus opulifolius Rubella - Ninebark

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Rubella' is a brand new variety of Physocarpus, or Ninebark, interesting for its low and compact growth, well suited to small gardens, and its foliage brilliantly coloured in shades of purple-red and ruby-red. In spring, it showcases an abundant flowering, in delicate smoky pink corymbs, followed by a lovely production of small red fruits. It is not without charm in winter, when its bark exfoliates in beige patches on a dark brown background.

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Rubella' belongs to the Rosaceae family, its ancestor is native to the eastern United States, and spread as far as Quebec and Manitoba. The growth of this bush is medium to slow and its adult size will not exceed 1.25m (4ft) in height by 1.10m (4ft) in width. Its foliage is deciduous, falling in autumn. This very hardy species grows in any loose garden soil that is not too dry. It is a highly branched bush, with a dense habit, initially upright and then slightly arching with age. Very ornamental with its glossy leaves that emerge in a bright red to copper colour, then gradually turn purple throughout the growing season, while retaining a ruby-red underside. The leaves are entire, lobed, deeply cut, crenate, and measure 3 to 8cm (1 to 3in) in length. The bush is at its peak when flowering occurs in May-June. These are flattened corymbs, small bouquets garnis of purple buds that open into small nectar-rich pink flowers, highly visited by bees. They are followed by red fruits appreciated by birds in autumn.

The 'Rubella' Ninebark will find its place in flower beds or in a low hedge, to contrast with light-foliaged bushes, accompany bushes with pink flowers (roses, Deutzia) or blue flowers. It will be charming in the company of spiraeas (Spirea arguta, Spirea x billardii), viburnums (Viburnum carlesii 'Chesapeake', Viburnum x bodnantense), dwarf winged Euonymus (Euonymus alatus compactus), or a Neillia (Neillia affinis) that it will illuminate. To accompany its brilliant colours, one can plant Heucheras or Heucherellas, for example, at its base. It will also have a great effect planted in a container on a terrace or balcony.

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 numerous colourful cultivars that have been created in recent years have allowed it to make a strong comeback in gardens.