Ninebark Physocarpus opulifolius All Black = 'Minall2' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Physocarpus opulifolius All Black, commonly known as the Ninebark 'All Black', is distinguished by its striking dark foliage. The leaves of this ornamental shrub exhibit an intense purple-black color, providing a dramatic contrast when planted among plants with lighter-colored foliage. The leaves themselves are typically lobed, adding texture and depth to the plant's appearance with their naturally intricate shapes. As the seasons change, the Ninebark 'All Black' blooms with clusters of small, delicate flowers that produce a visually appealing contrast against the dark foliage. These flowers can range in tone but are often white or light pink. After blooming, the flowers may transform into small, red fruit that add yet another layer of visual interest to this diverse and dynamic shrub. Furthermore, the bark of the Ninebark 'All Black' peels away in layers, revealing an attractive exfoliating texture that is particularly striking during the winter months when the leaves have fallen. This exfoliating feature lends the plant its common name and offers year-round ornamental value. The overall effect of the foliage, flowers, fruit, and bark is that of a deeply-colored, textured plant that can add depth, contrast, and a touch of drama to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Ninebark, Eastern Ninebark, Atlantic Ninebark, Common Ninebark.
Common names
Physocarpus opulifolius All Black = 'Minall2' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Ninebark, including the cultivar Physocarpus opulifolius All Black = 'Minall2' (PBR), is generally not considered toxic to humans. There is a lack of significant evidence to suggest that ingesting parts of this plant would result in poisoning. However, as with any plant material, individual allergic reactions or stomach upset can occur if ingested, so it is still advisable to not consume parts of the ninebark plant.
To pets
Ninebark, including the cultivar Physocarpus opulifolius All Black = 'Minall2' (PBR), is also generally regarded as non-toxic to pets. Similar to its effects on humans, there is no substantial information suggesting that this plant would cause poisoning in pets if ingested. Nonetheless, it is always recommended to prevent pets from consuming plant material, as it may cause mild stomach discomfort or an allergic reaction in sensitive animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Purple
Flower color
Pink
Height
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Spread
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Physocarpus opulifolius All Black, commonly known as Ninebark, offers a dramatic aesthetic with its dark purple-black foliage, making it a striking addition to any garden.
- Low Maintenance: Ninebark is known for its low maintenance needs, requiring minimal pruning and care once established in the appropriate conditions.
- Drought Tolerance: Ninebark is able to withstand periods of dryness once rooted, making it suitable for regions with occasional water scarcity.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: The plant has natural resistance to many common pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Seasonal Interest: Throughout the seasons, Ninebark provides interest with its spring blossoms, richly colored leaves, and exfoliating bark in the winter.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers of Ninebark attract pollinators, while the seeds can provide food for birds, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
- Adaptability: Ninebark can adapt to a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil, making it versatile for different landscape conditions.
- Erosion Control: The dense and fibrous root system of Ninebark helps to stabilize soil, preventing erosion on slopes or in areas prone to rain washout.
- Privacy and Screening: With its full, bushy habit, Ninebark can be used to create natural privacy screens or borders in garden settings.
- Winter Interest: The plant's exfoliating bark and sturdy branching structure present visual interest in the otherwise barren winter landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Physocarpus opulifolius 'All Black', commonly known as Ninebark, can be used in bird gardens to attract various bird species, as its dense foliage provides excellent shelter and nesting opportunities.
- The peeling bark of Ninebark offers a unique textural element in winter gardens, creating visual interest in what is often a dormant period for garden aesthetics.
- The robust root system of Ninebark makes it an ideal plant for erosion control on slopes or riverbanks, helping to stabilize soil and prevent loss of land.
- As an educational tool in schools or community programs, Ninebark can be used to teach about native plants, pollination, and the importance of biodiversity in local ecosystems.
- Ninebark's branches and foliage can be incorporated into floral arrangements or wreaths, providing a dark, contrasting background that enhances the colors of other flowers.
- It can serve as a natural windbreak in gardens or small farms, thanks to its dense growth habit and hardiness.
- The dense foliage can also provide a natural privacy screen for homeowners, creating a living fence that is both functional and attractive.
- In a wildlife garden, the Ninebark can be part of a habitat corridor, supporting wildlife movement and foraging between more substantial natural areas.
- Its ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions makes Ninebark a suitable candidate for reclaimed or disturbed sites, aiding in the restoration of native plant communities.
- Ninebark branches can be harvested in the winter and used for cold-season crafts, such as making rustic plant markers or natural garden trellises.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Ninebark is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Ninebark is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery: The 'All Black' variety of Ninebark, with its deep purple-black foliage, is often associated with mystery and the unknown due to its dark appearance.
- Protection: Ninebark plants in general are hardy and resilient, which can symbolize protection and the ability to withstand various challenges.
- Adaptability: This plant's versatility and ease of growth in a range of conditions can represent adaptability and flexibility in life.
WaterThe Ninebark 'All Black' requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing it with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the hotter summer months, check the soil moisture level frequently; if the top 2 inches of soil are dry, it's time to water again. Reduce watering during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Always aim to water the plant early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize evaporation.
LightNinebark 'All Black' thrives in full sun to partial shade. To encourage the best foliage color and a healthy growth habit, locate the plant where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in areas with extremely hot summers, some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureNinebark 'All Black' is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, enduring winter lows down to -20°F and summer highs well above 90°F. Ideally, it prefers to grow in a region where the average temperature ranges between 60°F and 70°F. Despite its hardiness, always mulch the base of the plant to help insulate the roots in extremes of cold or heat.
PruningNinebark 'All Black' benefits from pruning to shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or diseased wood. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune up to one-third of the oldest branches back to the ground to rejuvenate the plant every few years. Clean pruning shears between cuts to avoid spreading disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNinebark 'All Black' prefers well-drained soil with added organic matter; it's adaptable to most soil types. Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingNinebark 'All Black' is typically not repotted as it's grown as a landscape shrub; it does not require frequent transplanting.
Humidity & MistingNinebark 'All Black' tolerates average outdoor humidity levels well and does not require specific humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ninebark 'All Black' isn't suited for indoor growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Ninebark 'All Black', or Physocarpus opulifolius 'Minall2', commonly called Ninebark, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which takes place in moist, fertile soil with exposure to warm temperatures in spring or early summer. Following germination, seedlings emerge and grow into juvenile plants featuring the plant's signature deeply lobed, dark purple leaves. Throughout the growing season, Ninebark will develop woody stems and mature into a deciduous shrub, with its foliage turning to shades of red or purple in the fall before shedding for winter dormancy. During late spring to early summer, the shrub produces clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers, which are followed by the formation of small red fruit that ripen to a dark, almost black color. These fruits may persist into winter and subsequently release seeds, which can start a new generation of plants. In ideal conditions, Ninebark 'All Black' can live and thrive for several years, reaching its full mature size of about 4 to 6 feet tall and wide.
PropogationPropogation time
Summer-autumn
The Ninebark 'All Black' (Physocarpus opulifolius 'Minall2' PBR) is commonly propagated by softwood cuttings, a method that begins in late spring or early summer when the plant's new growth is still flexible but maturing. When undertaking propagation via softwood cuttings, take a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) in length, making sure it includes at least two sets of leaves. Cuttings should be taken in the morning when the plant is fully hydrated. Remove the lower set of leaves to expose the nodes, as this is where root growth is most likely to occur. The cut end is then often dipped into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development and then planted into soil rich in organic matter. The cutting should then be kept in a well-lit area, out of direct sunlight, with consistent moisture until roots have established, which typically takes several weeks.
