Physocarpus Summer Wine®

A cross between Physocarpus opulifolius 'Nanum', the seed parent, and P. opulifolius Diabolo®, the pollen parent, Summer Wine® gets its compact, free-branching growth habit and fine texture from 'Nanum' and its striking dark foliage from Diabolo®. In late spring, this spreading deciduous shrub, closely related to genus Spiraea, blooms on old wood in spiraea-like clusters of small, spherical, pinkish white flower "buttons" on arching branches of deeply lobed, undulating wine-red foliage. This ninebark cultivar holds its wine color throughout summer, with the best color in full sun. Fairly concealed most of the year, the reddish to light brown exfoliating layers of bark on mature branches add winter interest.

A trouble-free way to introduce stunning color into the garden or landscape, the bush is tough, vigorous, and drought tolerant. It grows in a wide range of soils, including shallow rocky soil, and is a good choice for areas of erosion. Mature size is approximately 5 to 6 feet tall and wide, but it can be pruned as desired immediately after blooming or cut close to the ground each spring for rejuvenation. Cold hardy to Zone 3, the plant is marginal in the hot and humid climates of the deep South.

Uses: Cut Flowers, Mixed Beds, Mass Plantings, Borders, Containers