Ginger Wine Ninebark (PW)

Overview

• Botanical Name: *Physocarpus opulifolius ‘SMNPOBLR’ (trade name “Ginger Wine®” Ninebark) 

• Common Name: Ginger Wine® Ninebark

• Hardiness Zones: 3a–7b (so definitely suitable for Zone 3) 

• Mature Size: Roughly 5‑6 ft tall × 5‑6 ft wide (≈1.5‑1.8 m) in most conditions. 

• Key Features:

  • Foliage emerges bright orange in spring → matures to burgundy red through summer → vivid fall color. 

  • White flower clusters in late spring, followed by red seed heads. 

  • Disease‑resistant, low‑maintenance native shrub. 

☀️ Light & Site Requirements

• Sunlight: Best in full sun (6+ hours/day) to maximize foliage color and flowering. It will tolerate part sun, but full sun yields best results. 

• Soil: Very adaptable — performs well in a wide range of soil types (loamy, clay, shallow, rocky). Preferably well‑drained. 

• Spacing: Because of its eventual spread (~5‑6 ft), plan accordingly — allow room for the shrub to breathe. 

• Zone 3 considerations: Since this cultivar is rated to Zone 3, site selection should emphasise sun, and avoiding overly wet/trapped cold spots will help ensure reliable performance.

Planting & Watering

• Planting: Best planted in spring or early fall when soil moisture is good. Dig hole about twice root‑ball size, set plant level with surrounding soil, water in well. 

• Watering:

  • During establishment (first 1‑2 seasons): keep soil evenly moist.

  • Once established: fairly drought tolerant — minimal watering needed outside of extended dry spells. 

• Mulching: Add 2–3 inches of organic mulch around base, keeping mulch slightly away from stems, to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning needs are low. Because it blooms on old wood, avoid heavy pruning in spring before bloom. Best time is just after flowering, or in late winter/early spring to remove old/damaged stems. 

• For rejuvenation: every few years remove about one‑third of oldest stems at ground level to keep shrub vigorous and colorful. 

• Avoid routine hard‑cutting back unless necessary — the natural arching habit is part of its appeal.

Foliage, Bloom & Seasonal Interest

• Foliage: Stunning progression of color — orange in spring, then burgundy, then deep red in fall. Excellent multi‑season interest. 

• Blooms: White flower clusters in late spring to early summer. These are good for attracting pollinators. 

• Seed Heads & Bark: After blooming, red seed heads add interest; bark is exfoliating (giving “ninebark” its name) which adds winter texture. 

Pests, Diseases & Wildlife

• Generally disease‑resistant, including good resistance to mildew in trials. 

• Common pests: typical shrub pests (e.g., aphids) may appear but are not a major concern if the plant is healthy. 

• Wildlife: The flowers attract pollinators. The seed heads and structure offer value for birds and insect life. 

• Deer and salt tolerance: While many sources note good landscape performance, check local browsing pressure; not guaranteed deer‑proof.

Landscape Uses & Tips

• Excellent as a specimen shrub, color focal plant, hedge or screen, or mass planting for impact.

• Works in mixed shrub borders, foundation plantings, native or low‑maintenance landscapes.

• Because of its bold foliage and multi‑season interest, pair it with contrasting textures or colors (e.g., silvers, deep greens, ornamental grasses).

• In Zone 3, emphasise its cold‑hardiness and suitability for northern gardens — a strong selling point.

Photos from Proven Winners