Physocarpus opulifolius Summer Wine® (Ninebark) Unity Grown

Physocarpus opulifolius Summer Wine® is a multi-color ninebark cultivar that combines the wine-colored foliage from Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' with the dense branches and foliage shape of Physocarpus opulifolius 'Nana' into one excellent, wine-red, upright form. Well regarded ornamentally and ecologically for its pollinator attracting blooms from from late spring to early summer, Summer Wine® adds additional contrast to any green landscape, with an vase-like habit and a ton of ornamental beauty. In the fall, pollinated flowers turn to red, berry-like seed pods, which are attractive to birds, and even after the attractive red autumn foliage has fallen, the intricate branching pattern and unique exfoliating bark that gives the plant its common name can really shine.

This cultivar typically grows to around 5-8' tall and wide, so it requires a bit more space than true dwarf cultivars, but grows a bit more compact than the parent species, which can reach 10'. Although the foliage may differ from the straight species, Physocarpus opulifolius Summer Wine® maintains all the hardiness of the original, and has great tolerance to a wide variety of soil conditions, but grows best in drier sites with full sun. Summer Wine® can be used as a specimen plant, foundation planting, or as a hedge, thanks to its densely branching nature. In addition, Physocarpus opulifolius Summer Wine® is an excellent native substitute for the popular but invasive burning bush (Euonymus alatus).

(Photos courtesy of Proven Winners)