Physocarpus opulifolius 'Red Baron'

Moderate to fast; establishes quickly and fills in within a few seasons.

Mature size: 6–8 feet tall and 5–6 feet wide; upright, arching habit.

Flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Seed capsules provide food for birds in fall and winter.

Dense branching offers cover and nesting habitat for small wildlife.

Spring: New growth emerges deep red; white flower clusters bloom.

Summer: Rich burgundy foliage provides continuous color.

Fall: Leaves turn deeper crimson; small red seed capsules appear.

Winter: Peeling bark adds structural and textural appeal.

– Hedges, borders, mass plantings, color accents, erosion control, and four-season landscape interest

Deciduous, lobed leaves emerge deep red in spring, holding a rich burgundy-maroon tone through summer.

Foliage intensifies to dark crimson in fall.

Older stems reveal exfoliating bark, adding winter texture and visual interest.

Small white to pale pink flowers form in dense, rounded clusters in late spring to early summer.

Flowers contrast beautifully against the dark red foliage, adding brightness and texture.

Select a site with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the container.

Loosen surrounding soil and mix in compost to promote strong root growth.

Position the plant so the crown is level with the soil surface, backfill, and water deeply to eliminate air pockets.

Apply a 2–3 inch mulch layer around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from the stem.

Space plants 4–6 feet apart for mass plantings or hedges.

Prune after flowering in late spring to early summer to maintain shape.

Remove one-third of the oldest stems every 2–3 years to encourage new growth and vibrant color.

Avoid pruning in early spring to prevent cutting off developing flower buds.

Can be cut back hard every few years to rejuvenate overgrown plants.

Water deeply and regularly during establishment.

Once established, moderately drought tolerant, though consistent moisture promotes best color and flowering.

Avoid overly wet or compacted soil.

Grows best in full sun for the richest burgundy-red foliage color.

Tolerates light shade, though leaf color may soften to reddish-green.

Produces small, red seed capsules after flowering, maturing in late summer and lasting into fall.

Fruits are ornamental only and not edible.

Birds may feed on the seed capsules in fall and early winter.

Feed once in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10).

Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages leafy growth and duller color.

Top-dress with compost annually to maintain soil health and moisture retention.

Insect-pollinated; small white-pink flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Self-fertile; no cross-pollination required for fruit set.

Shrubs: Spiraea, Berberis, Weigela, and Hydrangea for contrasting forms and colors.

Perennials: Rudbeckia, Coreopsis, Nepeta, and Echinacea to complement the deep foliage.

Grasses: Panicum virgatum or Miscanthus for added height and movement.

Evergreens: Thuja or Juniperus for year-round contrast and structure.