Overview

Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' is a bushy shrub in the genus Viburnum, part of the Viburnaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 3.5 m tall. Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include hedges, borders and foundation plantings. It is native to Portugal Continental.

About

Viburnum tinus, the laurustinus or laurustine, is a species of flowering plant in the family Viburnaceae, native to the Mediterranean area of Europe and North Africa.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Viburnum tinus

About the genus

Viburnum is a genus of about 150–175 species of flowering plants in the family Viburnaceae. Its current classification is based on molecular phylogeny. It was previously included in the family Caprifoliaceae.

Wikipedia contributors, "Viburnum", CC BY-SA 4.0Viburnum

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Viburnum

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Full sun, Partial shade
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Shrub
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
3.5 m
Suggested uses
Hedges, Borders, Foundation plantings
Native to
Portugal Continental
Fragrance
Mildly fragrant flowers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Viburnum tinus 'Spirit'

Cultivation
Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates drought once established; prune after flowering to maintain shape
Pruning
Light pruning after flowering to shape and remove dead wood
Propagation
Semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistance
Aphids, Viburnum beetle
Disease resistance
Phytophthora, Honey fungus, Grey moulds, Leaf spot

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Viburnum tinus 'Spirit'?

Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates drought once established; prune after flowering to maintain shape.

Where is the best place to plant Viburnum tinus 'Spirit'?

Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' prefers full sun. It suits full sun and partial shade positions.

What soil does Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' need?

Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Viburnum tinus 'Spirit'?

Light pruning after flowering to shape and remove dead wood.

How big does Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' grow?

Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' reaches a height of 3.5 m.

Is Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' hardy in the UK?

Viburnum tinus 'Spirit' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Viburnum tinus 'Spirit'?

Semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

More in the Viburnum genus

Browse all Viburnum