About
An evergreen shrub to 2m high, with large, ovate, glossy dark green leaves to 15cm long. Dense clusters of small white flowers open from reddish buds in winter and spring, followed by ovoid blue-black berries later in the year.
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
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
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