Overview
Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' is a bushy shrubs in the genus Viburnum, part of the Viburnaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 1.5-2.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit and low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden.
About
'Popcorn' is a rounded, deciduous shrub characterized by its horizontal branching. Its mid-green leaves feature toothed edges and prominent veins, transitioning to shades of red and purple as autumn arrives. In mid to late spring, it produces small, compact clusters of white flowers.
About the genus
Viburnum comprises both deciduous and evergreen shrubs characterized by their opposite, simple or palmately lobed foliage. These plants produce clusters of small flowers, which may be white or pink and often emit a pleasant fragrance. After flowering, they yield berries in shades of red, blue, or black.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Viburnum
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
- Toxicity
- Fruit 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
Pruning and caring for Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn'
- Cultivation
- Grows well in most moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1. Tolerate hard renovative pruning
- Propagation
- Propagate by softwood cuttings in the summer
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to aphids and viburnum beetle
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to Phytophthora, honey fungus, grey moulds and leaf spot
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn'?
Grows well in most moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade.
Where is the best place to plant Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn'?
Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' need?
Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn'?
Pruning group 1. Tolerate hard renovative pruning.
How big does Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' grow?
Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 1.5-2.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' hardy in the UK?
Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn'?
Propagate by softwood cuttings in the summer.
Is Viburnum plicatum f. plicatum 'Popcorn' toxic?
Fruit 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.