How to Grow Ninebark Summer Wine
Wikimedia Commons
Ninebark Summer Wine
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Summer Wine'
shrubSummer Wine is a deciduous ornamental shrub prized for its deep burgundy foliage that intensifies in color throughout the growing season. It produces delicate pink and white flowers in late spring, followed by attractive seed pods. This cultivar is more compact and colorful than the species, making it excellent for landscape design and specimen plantings.
When should you plant Ninebark Summer Wine in your zone?
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Example Ninebark Summer Wine timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ninebark Summer Wine
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Ninebark Summer Wine
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-7, with best color in cooler climates
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Establishment
First 6-8 weeksNewly planted young shrub with initial burgundy foliage; may appear dormant if planted in early spring
Water regularly to establish deep roots; apply mulch; avoid fertilizing in first year to prevent soft growth
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early summerShrub develops new shoots and expands; foliage darkens from reddish-purple to deep burgundy
Water during dry spells; prune lightly to shape if desired; monitor for pests
Flowering
Late May through JuneDelicate clusters of small pink and white flowers appear at branch tips
No special care needed; flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Fruit Development & Color Intensification
July through SeptemberFlowers fade to attractive reddish seed pods; foliage deepens to darkest burgundy color
Foliage color is most intense in fall; deadheading is optional as seed pods are ornamental
Dormancy
October through MarchLeaves drop in fall; bare burgundy-tinged branches remain attractive; exfoliating bark becomes visible
No watering needed; prune in late winter if rejuvenation is desired; minimal maintenance
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove infested leaves; spray neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe; encourage natural predators
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Increase humidity with misting; spray with water to dislodge; neem oil for heavy infestations
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if needed; remove affected foliage
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Prune out heavily infested branches; spray horticultural oil in early spring
Uses
Ornamental Specimen & Screening
LandscapeSummer Wine serves as a striking focal point in borders with its deep burgundy foliage and delicate flowers. It works well as a deciduous hedge, privacy screen, or foundation planting. [source]
Pollinator & Bird Support
WildlifeThe spring flowers attract bees and butterflies, while the seed pods provide food for songbirds throughout fall and winter. This shrub supports the entire ecosystem in your garden. [source]
Cut Branches & Floral Design
CraftThe colorful foliage and delicate flower clusters are excellent for spring and early summer floral arrangements. The exfoliating bark and seed pods are valuable for dried arrangements. [source]
Low-Maintenance Landscaping
HouseholdOnce established, Summer Wine requires minimal care, fertilizing, or pest management compared to many ornamental shrubs. Its drought tolerance and disease resistance make it ideal for sustainable landscaping. [source]
Harvest Tips
No harvest required—this is an ornamental shrub. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and size; remove dead or crossing branches. Can be cut back hard to rejuvenate old plants. Collect seed pods in fall if desired for dried arrangements.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Ninebark' refers to the exfoliating bark that naturally peels to reveal multiple layers of color, resembling nine separate bark layers as the shrub matures.
- 🌱 The 'Summer Wine' cultivar was selected and introduced by the Chicago Botanic Garden for its superior deep purple foliage color that intensifies as summer progresses—more dramatic than the species.
- 🌱 Physocarpus is in the Rosaceae family alongside apples, pears, and roses, and historically the shredding bark was used in some herbal remedies.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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