Trees and shrubs with dark leaves are real originals!They can become the focal point of the garden, but they will also prove themselves as a color break in the green belt or as part of multi-colored compositions. Regardless of their use, they are always a distinctive accent that stimulates the observer's senses.Plants with dark leaves better tolerate exposure to sunlight, which additionally causes their deeper, more intense color.
Physocarpus opulifolius, a shrub that grows up to 2 meters on average, offers great freedom in the selection of shades. This undemanding plant, resistant to low temperatures and urban environment, comes in many varieties with dark leaves, from dark orange to almost black.The most popular are, among others: 'Diable d'Or', ' Diabolo ',' Lady in Red ',' Little Devil '.
A species of similar size and equally high tolerance to habitat conditions is the elder Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'. In June, it showers with light pink fragrant inflorescences that perfectly contrast with the almost black, heavily indented leaves.It looks best in a sunny position, in the shade it can enhance the impression of underexposure.
Perukowiec Podolski Cotinus coggygria impresses with its extraordinary shape of leaves, but its greatest decoration are fluffy plumes of inflorescences, and later also of infructescences. The 'Royal Purple' variety is distinguished by the intense purple of leaves and flowers. It grows up to 3 meters. The lower representative of the plants in question is Thunberg's barberry Berberis thunbergii of the 'Atropurpurea Nana' variety. Achieve optimal development on alkaline soils, in a sunny position.
Apple Malus cultivar 'Roy alty' grows up to 4-6 meters, forming a low-branched conical crown.In May it is densely showered with dark red flowers, then leaves are formed, red during development and purple in full growth.In August, small red apples appear.
Color variation
If we want our garden to match the native landscape and at the same time break the pattern, the perfect choice will be the southern hazel 'Purpurea' Corylus maxima, which is a colorful variation of the common hazel Corylus avellana.It differs from the regular visitor to Polish forests in the purple color of its leaves and interesting edible fruits.
In February, yellow bases appear, heralding the beginning of spring in our garden.
Recommended plants
1. The 'Roy alty' apple tree is variable throughout the year, it has decorative leaves, flowers and fruit.
2. The scarlet fever of 'Diabolo' has fluffy inflorescences, usually white with pink accents, and red inflorescences.
3. Thunberg's barberry 'Atropurpurea Nana' looks perfect on rockeries or as a low hedge.
4. The 'Royal Purple' periwinkle requires sunny or semi-shaded places and alkaline soils.
5. Black elderberry 'Eva' is distinguished by dark purple, sometimes almost black glossy leaves.
