About

An evergreen shrub to 1.2m high, with an upright to rounded habit and ovate, glossy dark green leaves. Dense clusters of small, scented white flowers open from reddish buds in late winter, followed by ovoid blue-black berries.

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
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower
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

CultivationGrow in any moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade, with protection from cold, drying winds
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or by grafting in late summer or winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, viburnum beetle, viburnum whitefly and viburnum scale
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Phytophthora, honey fungus, grey moulds and leaf spot