About
A medium-sized, evergreen shrub from the Himalaya with elliptic to oblong, leathery, dark, glossy green leaves and small, domed clusters of small, white flowers in spring, followed by dark, metallic-blue berries. A refined and ornamental Viburnum for a sheltered, partly shaded position in a mild garden.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope Asia Africa
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 in sun or part shade. See viburnum cultivation for further advice
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn, or propagate by softwood cuttings (greenwood) in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and viburnum beetle
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Phytophthora, honey fungus, grey moulds and leaf spot