About
An evergreen shrub, to around 2m high, with oval-shaped, glossy dark green leaves. Broad clusters of small, lightly scented white flowers open from pink buds in late winter and early spring, followed by small, oval-shaped blue berries that ripen to black.
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
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
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
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
CultivationGrows well in most moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soils. Position in full sun or part shade, with shelter from cold, drying winds
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, viburnum beetle, viburnum scale and viburnum whitefly
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Phytophthora, honey fungus, grey moulds and leaf spot