Ninebark Physocarpus opulifolius 'Donna May' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Physocarpus opulifolius 'Donna May', commonly known as Little Devil™ ninebark, is a deciduous shrub notable for its compact and rounded habit. The foliage of this plant presents an arresting display, with leaves that are a rich burgundy to deep purple, offering a striking contrast to many other garden plants. These leaves are notably shaped with three to five lobes per leaf, having a slightly serrated edge, which adds texture to the shrub's appearance. Come spring and early summer, Little Devil™ ninebark blooms with clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers. These flowers are appealing to pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding an additional layer of life to the plant's presentation. After the flowering period, the plant develops small red to purplish fruits that can attract birds, though the fruits are not particularly showy and tend to blend in with the dark foliage. As the seasons change, the foliage retains its deep color, providing a vivid backdrop for any fading flowers or developing seed heads. In autumn, while some plants may shift color, the leaves of the Little Devil™ ninebark often remain consistent until they drop, maintaining the shrub's color interest throughout the growing season. Overall, this variety of ninebark is admired for its lush, colorful foliage and the modest display of flowers that contribute a textural and chromatic complexity to gardens and landscapes without taking up a significant amount of space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Ninebark, Eastern Ninebark, Atlantic Ninebark.
Common names
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Donna May' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Ninebark, including the variety Physocarpus opulifolius 'Donna May', is generally not considered toxic to humans. There is no significant toxicity reported for ingesting parts of this plant. However, like many plants, individual sensitivities could result in mild stomach upset or skin irritation. It is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants.
To pets
Ninebark, known scientifically as Physocarpus opulifolius 'Donna May', is not commonly listed as toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. While not considered poisonous, eating large quantities of any non-food plant material can potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea in pets due to the physical irritation or sensitivity, rather than toxicity. It is always best to prevent pets from ingesting plants not meant for consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Purple
Flower color
Pink
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Features attractive deep burgundy foliage that adds color and visual interest to landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Resistant to many common pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for drier climates.
- Adaptable: Tolerates a variety of soil types, from clay to loam, as long as the site has good drainage.
- Wildlife Support: Produces small white or pink flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Year-Round Interest: Offers multi-seasonal interest with spring flowers, summer foliage, and peeling winter bark.
- Privacy Screen: Can be used in hedges or as a stand-alone shrub to create privacy in gardens and yards.
- Easy Pruning: Responds well to trimming, making it easy to shape and control the size.
- Fall Coloration: Leaves can turn to shades of red and orange in the fall, providing additional seasonal beauty.
- Fast Growing: Quickly reaches maturity, making it a good choice for new gardens or when needing to establish landscaping quickly.
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 'Donna May', commonly known as Ninebark, can be used as a natural dye source. The bark of Ninebark contains tannins that can impart a yellow or brown color to fabrics.
- Wood from Ninebark is sometimes used in small woodworking projects. Although not commercially popular, its wood can be crafted into handles for tools or carved into decorative objects.
- Ninebark branches are suitable for creating natural supports or stakes in gardens. Their sturdy nature can help prop up plants that require additional support.
- The dense branching habit of Ninebark makes it suitable for erosion control on slopes. Planting it on banks can help stabilize soil and prevent runoff.
- Ninebark's peeling bark can be used in art projects or as a textured material in collages, offering a unique tactile element.
- In teaching settings, Ninebark can serve as an example of plant propagation through cuttings, as it roots relatively easily and can illustrate vegetative reproduction.
- Ninebark's attractive seed heads can be harvested and used in dried floral arrangements, providing a touch of natural beauty indoors.
- The plant's arching growth habit can be manipulated through pruning to create living sculptures or garden topiaries.
- Ninebark can also serve as habitat and nesting sites for birds, with its dense foliage offering a safe space for birds to raise their young.
- For those interested in photography, Ninebark offers year-round visual interest with its spring flowers, summer foliage, fall color, and winter bark texture, making it a great subject for nature photographers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Ninebark is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Ninebark is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hardiness: Physocarpus opulifolius 'Donna May', commonly known as Ninebark, often symbolizes resilience and strength due to its hardy nature, capable of thriving in a variety of conditions and climates.
- Versatility: Ninebark's adaptability to different landscaping uses, from hedges to standalone specimens, signifies versatility and flexibility.
- Renewal: With its habit of peeling bark that reveals new layers underneath, Ninebark is often associated with themes of growth and renewal.
- Transformation: The seasonal changes in foliage color from spring to autumn, and peeling bark throughout the year, make Ninebark a symbol of transformation and change.
- Native beauty: As a plant native to North America, Ninebark symbolizes the beauty and value of indigenous flora and the importance of preserving and celebrating native plants.
WaterThe Ninebark 'Little Devil' prefers consistent moisture, but it's important not to overwater. Water the shrub deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water each time, depending on the soil type and weather conditions. During hot and dry periods, you may need to water twice a week, whereas in cooler or rainy weather, you can reduce watering frequency. Always check the soil moisture; it should be moist but not waterlogged. Be cautious of under-watering as well, as prolonged dryness can cause stress and leaf drop.
LightNinebark 'Little Devil' thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot would offer it at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, while some afternoon shade can help protect the plant in hotter climates. Avoid deep shade locations since insufficient light can result in fewer flowers and a less compact growth habit.
TemperatureNinebark 'Little Devil' is cold hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. The ideal temperature for growth and flowering is between 60°F and 70°F, but it can withstand summer heat up to 90°F without significant stress. Ensure the planting site is protected from harsh winter winds to prevent damage.
PruningPrune Ninebark 'Little Devil' in late winter or early spring to promote healthy growth and maintain its shape. Pruning encourages bushier growth, increases air circulation, and reduces the chance of disease. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, and thin out the center of the shrub if it becomes too dense. The optimal time for more extensive pruning is immediately after the plant flowers, if shaping is necessary.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNinebark 'Donna May' prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. A mix of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts will ensure good drainage and aeration. Organic matter like compost or aged manure can be added to enhance soil fertility.
RepottingNinebark 'Donna May' is typically grown outdoors and does not require frequent repotting. Repot only if it's grown in a container and becomes root-bound, which may be every 3-5 years.
Humidity & MistingNinebark 'Donna May' is adaptable to various humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements, making it suitable for most garden environments without the need for humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and moist soil.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade, well-draining soil, moderate watering.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleNinebark 'Donna May' begins its life as a seed, requiring a period of cold stratification to break dormancy before germinating in the spring. Upon sprouting, the seedling establishes itself, developing a root system and foliage and eventually producing characteristic three-lobed leaves. As the plant matures during its growing seasons, it develops into a multi-stemmed shrub, with stems that can exhibit exfoliating bark, adding to its ornamental appeal. In late spring to early summer, Ninebark 'Donna May' reaches the flowering stage, displaying clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers which are attractive to pollinators. Following pollination, the plant produces small red to purplish fruits (follicles) that mature and release seeds, thus completing its reproductive cycle. Throughout its life, which can span several years, Ninebark 'Donna May' undergoes periods of active growth and dormancy, aligning with seasonal changes.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Ninebark 'Donna May,' a cultivar of Physocarpus opulifolius, is typically propagated through softwood cuttings. This method is most successful when undertaken in late spring or early summer, coinciding with the period when new growth is tender and flexible. To propagate, a cutting about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long is taken, ensuring that it includes at least two or three leaf nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining, moist potting mix, ensuring that at least two of the leaf nodes are below the surface to maximize root exposure. Maintaining a humid environment, often using a plastic cover or a mist system, is crucial during the rooting process, which may take several weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions and eventually planted out into the garden.
