Tiny Wine® Ninebark

The Tiny Wine® Ninebark, scientifically known as Physocarpus opulifolius, is a deciduous shrub celebrated for its unique attributes that make it a standout addition to any landscape. Originating from North America, this shrub is characterized by its compact and bushy growth habit, typically reaching a height of 3 to 5 feet and spreading approximately 3 to 4 feet wide. This moderate size makes it versatile for various garden spaces, from borders to container plantings.

One of the most striking features of the Tiny Wine® Ninebark is its foliage, which presents a stunning bronze-maroon color, adding a rich, deep tone to the garden palette throughout the season. The foliage's coloration provides a striking contrast to its flowers, which bloom in an enchanting pinkish-white shade. These flowers appear in a profusion during the late spring, creating a delightful visual display along the stems.

The Tiny Wine® Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) offers a variety of landscaping features that make it a valuable addition to a wide range of garden designs:

1. Compact Size: With a moderate height of 3 to 5 feet and a spread of 3 to 4 feet, this shrub is perfectly sized for small to medium garden spaces. Its compact nature allows it to fit well in both spacious and limited areas.
2. Striking Foliage: The plant's bronze-maroon foliage provides a rich, colorful backdrop throughout the growing season. This deep, vibrant color adds dramatic visual interest to any landscape and pairs well with a variety of other plants.
3. Seasonal Flower Display: The Tiny Wine® Ninebark blooms in late spring with pinkish-white flowers that create a stunning contrast against its dark foliage. These showy flowers enhance the plant's ornamental value.
4. Versatility in Garden Design: Its versatile nature makes it suitable for various garden styles, including contemporary, cottage, and rustic. It can be used in mixed borders, as a standalone focal point, or in container plantings.
5. Wildlife Attraction: The flowers of the Tiny Wine® Ninebark can attract pollinators, adding an ecological benefit to its aesthetic appeal.
6. Low Maintenance: Requiring minimal care, this plant is an ideal choice for gardeners looking for low-maintenance yet visually appealing options. It adapts well to most soil types and only needs occasional pruning.
7. Hardiness: Capable of withstanding a range of climates, this shrub is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 7, making it a resilient choice for various landscapes.
8. Companion Planting: Tiny Wine® Ninebark pairs well with other shrubs and perennials, such as Spirea, Hydrangea, and Salvia, which enjoy similar sun and soil conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for creating harmonious and diverse garden compositions.

In summary, the Tiny Wine® Ninebark is not only visually striking with its colorful foliage and springtime flowers, but it also offers versatility, ease of maintenance, and ecological benefits, making it a valuable and attractive choice for a wide range of landscaping projects.

Planting and caring for the Tiny Wine® Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) involves several key steps to ensure its healthy growth and vibrant display in your garden:

Planting Instructions:

1. Choosing the Right Location: Select a site with full sun exposure, where the plant can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. Tiny Wine® Ninebark can also tolerate partial shade, but full sun is ideal for the best foliage color and flower production.
2. Soil Preparation: This shrub adapts well to a wide range of soil types. However, well-drained soil is preferable. If necessary, amend the planting area with organic matter to improve drainage and soil fertility.
3. Planting Depth and Spacing: Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Space plants 3 to 4 feet apart to allow for growth and air circulation.
4. Watering after Planting: Water the plant thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the root ball and eliminate air pockets.

Care and Maintenance:

1. Watering: Water the Tiny Wine® Ninebark regularly during its first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but may require additional watering during extreme heat or when planted in containers.
2. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to conserve soil moisture, reduce weeds, and protect the roots in extreme temperatures.
3. Fertilizing: Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for shrubs.
4. Pruning: Prune after blooming to maintain shape and size. However, regular pruning is not necessary, as the plant's natural shape is often most attractive. If pruning is required, do it immediately after flowering since it blooms on old wood.
5. Winter Care: In colder regions (zones 3-7), the plant is generally winter-hardy. However, applying extra mulch around the base can provide additional protection against severe cold.
6. Pest and Disease Management: Tiny Wine® Ninebark is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. Regular monitoring and maintaining healthy growing conditions are usually sufficient to prevent major problems.

By following these planting and care guidelines, your Tiny Wine® Ninebark should thrive and become a beautiful and resilient addition to your garden.

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