Physocarpus opulifolius 'Summer Wine'

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Summer Wine': Deep Burgundy Foliage with Spring Flower Clusters

Physocarpus opulifolius 'Summer Wine' is a ninebark known for its rich wine-purple foliage that holds its colour beautifully through the growing season. In late spring, clusters of soft pinkish-white flowers appear against the dark leaves, adding a gentle bloom moment that feels fresh and bright. The naturally arching habit gives it a relaxed, layered look, while the exfoliating bark adds extra texture and interest as stems mature. Tough and adaptable, it brings dependable colour and structure to the landscape from spring to fall.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 5–6’
• Spread: 4–5’
• Flower Colour: Pinkish-white
• Flowering Period: Late spring
• Foliage: Deep burgundy to wine-purple foliage
• Sunlight Requirements: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil Requirements: Average, well-drained soil; adaptable once established

Uses and Benefits: A strong choice for mixed shrub borders, foundation plantings, and hedging where dark foliage can create contrast and depth. It pairs beautifully with gold-leaved shrubs, silver foliage, and bright summer perennials, and it also works well as a backdrop to highlight lighter blooms. The exfoliating bark adds winter character, making it valuable as a four-season structural shrub in Canadian landscapes.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun for the deepest foliage colour, with part shade tolerated, especially in hotter exposures. Water regularly during the first season to establish, then water during prolonged drought for best growth and leaf quality. Prune right after flowering if shaping is needed, and every few years remove a few older stems at the base to refresh the shrub and encourage strong new growth. Mulch helps conserve moisture and supports healthy roots.

History: Ninebark is a North American native shrub valued for resilience, exfoliating bark, and easy landscape performance. 'Summer Wine' became a popular dark-leaved selection for its refined habit and rich foliage colour, offering a dependable alternative to green shrubs in modern planting designs.

Final Thoughts: For long-lasting dark foliage, soft spring bloom, and rugged reliability, Summer Wine delivers a rich, elegant presence that makes other colours in the garden look even better.