Physocarpus opulifolius Perspectiva - Ninebark

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Perspectiva' is a brand new variety of ninebark with compact and beautifully coloured leaves, well suited for pot cultivation and ornamentation in small spaces. The foliage of this adorable little bush emerges as coppery bronze in spring, gradually turning purple as it bursts into almost white flowers in late spring, grouped in small rounded clusters. Like all ninebarks, this rustic bush also produces small, light red decorative fruits until autumn. Perfectly hardy, it will thrive in most of our regions.

Physocarpus opulifolius belongs to the Rosaceae family and is native to the eastern United States, up to Quebec and Manitoba. The 'Perspectiva' Ninebark, is a compact form that will not exceed 80cm (32in) in all directions. It is a deciduous bush that loses its foliage in winter. It is well branched, with a rather upright and bushy habit. It is remarkable for the colouration of its leaves, which emerge in a reddish hue tinged with orange copper, gradually turning more and more purple as they unfold. The leaves are lobed, deeply cut, serrated, and measure from 3 to 8cm (1 to 3in). From spring to early summer, in May-June, flattened corymbs of buds appear, opening into small white flowers with pink stamens, nectar-rich and visited by bees. They are followed by light red fruits appreciated by birds in autumn. The bush remains decorative in winter, with its bark exfoliating in beige to reddish-brown patches.

The 'Perspectiva' Ninebark will find its place in all gardens, including the smallest ones, as well as on terraces and balconies, when planted in a large pot. To surround it and play with contrasts, choose bushes with golden foliage, white, red, or dark, such as purple barberries, 'Tor Gold' spirea, shrubby wormwoods, or 'Lady in Red' or 'All Black' Ninebarks. It will be charming as part of a small hedge. Heucheras with purple, silver, or golden foliage, or Heucherellas for example, can be planted at its base. It will also have a great effect when 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 the 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 led to its strong comeback in gardens.