Ninebark Physocarpus opulifolius Diable D'Or = 'Mindia' (PBR)

Names

• Synonyms

  Ninebark, Eastern Ninebark, Atlantic Ninebark, Diabolo Ninebark, Diable D'Or Ninebark.

• Common names

  Physocarpus opulifolius 'Mindia'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Ninebark is not known to be toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, individual reactions can vary, and ingesting plant material could potentially cause mild stomach upset. It is generally advisable to avoid ingestion and to supervise children and pets around plants.

• To pets

  Ninebark is not known to be toxic to pets. However, ingesting plant material can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset in animals, similar to humans. If a pet were to ingest a large amount of the plant, monitoring for signs of distress and consulting with a veterinarian would be prudent.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Mixed

• Flower color

  Pink

• Height

  5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)

• Spread

  4 feet (1.2 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  3

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Easy to grow: The Ninebark 'Diabolo' is adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
• Drought-resistant: Once established, it has good drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Low maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond occasional pruning to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
• Pest and disease resistance: Generally resistant to common pests and diseases, minimizing the need for chemical treatments.
• Attractive foliage: Features deep burgundy leaves that offer a striking contrast to green landscapes and other plants.
• Seasonal interest: In addition to its vibrant foliage, it produces clusters of white to pinkish flowers in the spring and red fruit in the fall.
• Suitable for hedges: Can be used to create dense, decorative hedges or screens for privacy and wind protection.
• Wildlife habitat: The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while the fruit provides food for birds in the fall and winter.
• Erosion control: Its fibrous root system can help stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.
• Architectural interest: With its arching branches and exfoliating bark, Ninebark 'Diabolo' adds texture and visual interest to garden designs.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Ninebark branches can be used in floral arrangements, adding a rustic and woody appeal to bouquets and centerpieces with their exfoliating bark and arching form.
• The dense foliage of Ninebark can provide a natural privacy screen in gardens, quickly growing to block unwanted views or define borders without the need for synthetic fencing.
• Ninebark is a good candidate for bonsai due to its small leaves and interesting bark texture, presenting a challenge for enthusiasts looking to work with a native plant species.
• As a native plant, Ninebark offers habitat support, providing shelter and breeding sites for local wildlife such as birds and beneficial insects.
• The plant's strong root system makes it suitable for erosion control on slopes or riverbanks, where it helps stabilize the soil and reduce runoff.
• Ninebark's vibrant fall foliage can be used as a natural dye for fabrics or paper, offering an eco-friendly coloring solution.
• When pruned, the wood of Ninebark can be carved into small objects or tools, serving as a sustainable resource for handcrafted goods.
• The dried seed heads of Ninebark add texture to dried flower arrangements or wreaths, providing visual interest even outside the growing season.
• Ninebark can be used in permaculture designs as part of a layered planting scheme, maximizing the productivity and health of an ecological garden.
• During snowy winters, Ninebark's sturdy branches can catch snowfall, creating sculptural forms and winter interest in otherwise barren landscapes.

Feng Shui

The Ninebark is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Ninebark is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Adaptability: The Ninebark is a hardy shrub that can adapt to a wide range of soil and climate conditions, symbolizing the ability to thrive in various environments.
• Resilience: It's known for its peeling bark and ability to recover from harsh conditions, representing resilience in the face of challenges.
• Versatility: Ninebark can be used in many landscape designs, illustrating versatility and multifunctionality.
• Transformation: With its seasonal changes in foliage color and bark texture, Ninebark symbolizes the constant evolution and transformation in life.