Physocarpus opulifolius 'Seward' (Summer Wine Ninebark)

Summer Wine Ninebark is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with a more or less rounded form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This shrub will require occasional maintenance and upkeep and can be pruned at anytime. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Summer Wine Ninebark features showy clusters of white flowers at the ends of the branches from late spring to early summer, which emerge from distinctive pink flower buds. It has attractive deep purple deciduous foliage which emerges crimson in spring. The serrated lobed leaves are highly ornamental and turn an outstanding red in the fall. It features abundant showy red capsules from early to mid fall. The peeling tan bark and dark red branches add an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Summer Wine Ninebark will grow to be about 6 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 6 feet. It has a low canopy and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.

This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selection of a native North American species.