About
A multi-stemmed, upright to spreading, deciduous shrub to 4m tall. The pointed, ovate-lanceolate to oblong, slightly-toothed leaves are up to 12cm long and change in colour from blue-green to dark-green in spring and summer before taking on attractive autumnal hues. Small white flowers borne in early summer are followed by orange-yellow berries that turn a brilliant red in autumn.
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, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesMixed borders, hedging, foundation planting.
Native toC & W China
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
CultivationGrows well in most moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soils
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and viburnum beetle
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Phytophthora, honey fungus, grey moulds and leaf spot