Physocarpus opulifolius Black Light - Ninebark

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Black Light' is a variety of Sapwood-leaved Physocarpus with some of the darkest foliage there is. Its trilobed leaves are a remarkably dark purple, very close to black, with a beautiful glossy appearance. In early summer, its dark foliage serves as a backdrop for a beautiful white flowering in corymb, creating a strong contrast in the garden. This medium-sized plant is easy to grow in most situations. Hardy, it adapts to virtually all soils, from acidic to moderately chalky, moist to not too dry, in full sun or partial shade. This little botanical gem is a great choice for a small garden.

Physocarpus opulifolius belongs to the large and important family of Rosaceae, which gives us 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...). This Physocarpus is a species native to the eastern United States, up to Quebec (where it is known by the lovely name of "wood with 9 barks") and Manitoba. It forms a fairly large bush, about 3m (10ft) in all directions, with lobed leaves reminiscent of the guelder rose (Viburnum opulus, hence the species name of this Physocarpus opulifolius). This ornamental species was introduced to Europe as early as the end of the seventeenth century, but it is only in recent years with the development of many cultivars that it has spread to our gardens.

The 'Black Light' Physocarpus is a very recent creation (2019) from the Minier Nurseries near Angers. This charming bush was selected for its exceptionally dark purple foliage, darker than the famous 'Diabolo'. With their well-defined lobes and exceptional dark colour, the leaves with their satin-like surface reflect light like a body of water. This superb attire is adorned in June-July with beautiful white flowers in numerous corymbs, which stand out clearly against this dark mass. Nectar-rich, the flowers are highly visited by pollinating insects. They are followed by red fruits in the shape of small bladders, appreciated by birds in autumn.
Despite its modest size, about 1.50m (5ft) in all directions, Black Light easily captures attention. Of medium growth, this bush benefits from being pruned in spring to encourage the emergence of new shoots and to maintain its very dense appearance, which is part of its charm. Truly hardy (down to -25°C at least), it is a rather accommodating and easy-to-grow bush. Its limited development and good pruning tolerance allow it to be grown in the smallest gardens.

The 'Black Light' Physocarpus will be ideal in a flowerbed, to create contrasts with bushes with light or golden foliage. It will be perfect in the sun alongside Cotinus coggygria 'Golden Lady', a small tree with golden green foliage, creating a strong contrast. In a slightly shaded area, the same effect can be achieved with a Philadelphus coronarius 'Aureus', a golden version of the well-known Mock Orange. In a sunny contemporary garden, a very stylish combination would be to plant it behind the Perovskia 'Silvery Blue', with its light grey foliage and lavender-blue flowers. In the foreground, the very graphic Phlomis russeliana, with its trailing green leaves and yellow flowers, will also have a strong impact, as well as Epimediums, whose delicate flowering will be enhanced by the black background of our Physocarpus.