Physocarpus opulifolius Tiny Wine Gold - Ninebark

Physocarpus opulifolius Tiny Wine Gold is a variety of Ninebark with interesting low and compact growth, well suited to small gardens, and young golden leaves, particularly bright in spring. They then turn somewhat green, forming a beautiful backdrop for its abundant flowering, in small clusters of delicate pinkish-white, followed by attractive red fruits. Superb in borders, it also thrives in a large pot to decorate a terrace or balcony.

Physocarpus opulifolius Tiny Wine Gold belongs to the Rosaceae family, its ancestor is native to the eastern United States, and is widespread up to Quebec and Manitoba. This shrub has a medium to slow growth rate and its adult size (at 10 years) will not exceed 1.50m (5ft) in height by 1m (3ft) in width. Its foliage is deciduous, falling in autumn. This very hardy species grows in any loose garden soil that is not too dry. It is a highly branched bush, with a dense habit, initially upright and then rounding with age. It is very ornamental with its leaves that emerge golden, gradually turning chartreuse and then light green throughout the growing season. The leaves are entire, lobed, deeply incised, serrated, and measure from 3 to 8cm (1 to 3in) in length. Flowering occurs in May-June. These are flattened corymbs, small clusters adorned with pale pink buds that open into small nectar-rich flowers, highly visited by bees. They are followed by small red fruits enjoyed by birds in autumn.

Physocarpus Tiny Wine Gold, very vibrant, will find its place in borders or as a low hedge, alongside shrubs with purple foliage for a trendy colour contrast. It will also accompany shrubs with pink flowers (roses, Deutzia) or blue flowers. It will be charming in the company of spireas (Spirea arguta, Spirea x billardii), viburnums (Viburnum carlesii 'Chesapeake', Viburnum x bodnantense), dwarf winged Euonymus (Euonymus alatus 'Compactus'), or Neillia (Neillia affinis) which it will illuminate. Heucheras or Heucherellas with colourful foliage, for example, can be planted at its base. It will also make a big impact when planted in a container on a terrace or balcony.

The name Physocarpus opulifolius comes from the Greek 'phusa' which means air bubble or vesicle, and 'karpos' which refers to the fruit, in reference to the fruit's shape. The resemblance of its foliage to that of Viburnum opulus earned it the specific name "opulifolius". Introduced to Europe around 1687, the numerous vibrant cultivars created in recent years have allowed it to make a strong comeback in gardens.