About

A large erect deciduous shrub with broadly oval leaves turning red and purple in autumn. Lacecap-type flower-heads with creamy-white sterile florets, followed by red berries later turning black.

About the genus

Viburnum can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs with opposite, simple or palmately lobed leaves and clusters of small, often fragrant white or pink flowers, followed by red, blue or black berries

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toFar East
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental, not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

CultivationSuitable for shrub border or woodland garden. Grow in any moist but well-drained soil
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in autumn. Take semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Can also be propagated by grafting onto Viburnum lantana rootstock
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and viburnum beetle
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Phytophthora, honey fungus, grey moulds and leaf spot