Have you ever thought about adding winter-blooming shrubs to your front landscape? “What?” you say. “There are winter flowering shrubs?” Yes, and several are fragrant, too! Adding a pop of color and fragrance during the dreary days of winter is just what you need to jump start the landscape.

Flowering shrubs for winter, especially broadleaved evergreen shrubs, will ignite your winter landscape with bright green foliage, accented with colorful flowers and scent. Flowering shrubs are ideal as foundation plants, flowering hedges, or grown near doors and walkways where the sweet fragrance can be enjoyed.

Let's explore how to pick a cold-hardy flowering shrub and some of my favorite varieties to add curb appeal and give your front yard a facelift!

What to Look for in Cold-Hardy, Fragrant Winter Shrubs

When searching for fragrant shrubs that bloom in winter, it is important to know your hardiness zone. If you want the shrub to perform well and withstand winter, it should be in your growing zone. Find your growing zone on the USDA plant hardiness map.

If you do a search online for fragrant, cold hardy, flowering shrubs, numerous vendors are listed, maybe even nurseries near you. Shrubs will be listed as deciduous or evergreen. Deciduous shrubs lose their leaves in fall but usually have good fall color. Evergreen shrubs such as broadleaf evergreen shrubs, do not lose their leaves and likely stay green all winter.

Minimal Care, Maximum Reward

If you properly site the flowering shrub in well-draining soil and full to part sun, it should perform well. With flowering shrubs, generally the more sun it receives, the more flowers are produced.

When it comes to pruning, the shrub probably just needs a light trimming to shape the shrub and remove spent flowers. If the shrub is tall, do not worry about removing the spent flowers. It will still bloom next time. All the shrubs listed below form their flower buds on the previous season’s growth, so they should be pruned soon after flowering. You can prune out any dead or diseased wood, and any crossing branches.

Winter-flowering shrubs may need a boost of fertilizer in spring or after the bloom cycle is over. Use a balanced, slow release fertilizer such as 10-10-10 and apply it to the shrubs according to package instructions. Native shrubs usually do not need fertilizer.

Top Winter-Flowering Shrubs That Thrive in Cold Climates

Here are six fragrant, winter flowering shrubs that will spruce up a winter landscape.

1. Camellia

Camellias (Camellia japonica, C. sasanqua) are broadleaved evergreen shrubs that are favorites in the South. They bloom from late fall through winter and spring, depending on the variety. C. japonica’s flowers are fragrant and range in size from 3 to 5 inches (8 to 13 cm) in colors such as red, pink or white. C. japonica can grow to 25 feet tall (8 m) but typically stays half that size. C. sasanqua’s flowers are 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm) in diameter and the shrub usually stays from low and spreading to 12 feet tall (4 m).

Camellias grow slowly but are long-lived plants. Plant them in well-drained, acidic soil in USDA hardiness zones 7-9.

The 'Yuletide' camellia, available from Fast Growing Trees, will make a gorgeous addition to your landscape.

2. Viburnum

Viburnum (Viburnum × bodnantense ‘Dawn’) is a deciduous shrub that blooms with showy, pink, tubular flowers from late winter to early spring. In warm regions, the fragrant flowers bloom from autumn to spring. After flowers fade, red berries are produced that deepen to black by autumn. Dark green leaves turn burgundy red in fall.

‘Dawn’ grows 8 to 10 feet tall (2.4 to 3 m) and grows best in full sun to part shade in well-drained soil in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 7.

Find a beautiful 'Dawn' viburnum from MikesPlants nursery through Etsy.

3. Spiked Winterhazel

Spiked winterhazel (Corylopsis spicata) is a deciduous shrub native to Japan. Racemes with six to eight gold and yellow bell-shaped flowers appear before the foliage emerges in late winter or early spring. Bees and hummingbirds flock to the fragrant flowers when in bloom. Fall leaves change to yellow or gold. It grows to a height of 4 to 8 feet (1.2 to 2.4 m) and a similar width. Use it in a winter garden or Japanese-style garden, a pollinator garden or a cutting garden.

Plant winterhazel where it is protected from harsh afternoon sun and high winds. It needs fertile, well-drained, acidic soil in USDA hardiness zones 5-8. Find spiked winterhazel at Dancing Oaks Nursery.

4. Winter Daphne

Winter daphne (Daphne odora) is a broadleaf evergreen shrub native to Southern China, Vietnam and Taiwan. Pink, lavender, or white, very fragrant flowers bloom in mid-to-late winter before the leaves emerge. Red or black fruits follow the flowers making this shrub highly ornamental. Daphne grows 6.5 feet tall (2 m) and 4 feet wide (1.2 m). The shrub works well as a foundation plant, specimen, or in a pollinator or winter garden.

Plant daphne in well-drained soil in sun to part shade in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9. Note: All parts of winter daphne are highly poisonous to humans.

Find a beautiful pink winter daphne from Park Seed.

5. Sweetbox

Sweetbox shrubs (Sarcococca confusa and S. ruscifolia) are broadleaf evergreen shrubs with lustrous green foliage and small, white blooms that radiate an intoxicating scent in late winter. The berries that follow do not ripen for a year. S. confusa berries are first red, then changing to black. S. ruscifolia berries are red. Growing 3 to 5 feet (0.9 to 1.5 m) in height, sweetbox tolerates dry shade and is drought tolerant.

Plant sweetbox where its scent can be appreciated such as around windows and doors or outdoor living areas. Plant the shrubs in fertile, well-drained soil in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9.

Find a gorgeous sweetbox shrub at Lowe's.

5. Flowering Currant

Flowering currant shrubs (Ribes sanguineum) are deciduous, multi-stemmed shrubs that are native from British Columbia to northern California. It blooms in early spring with a spicy scent that is attractive to hummingbirds. Flowers are borne in clusters that hang down in red, pink, or white. The fruit that follows is blue-black and looks very much like blueberries. Autumn leaf color is golden yellow.

The shrub grows 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3 m) tall and can be grown in tree form, as a flowering hedge, specimen, foundation plant, or in a mixed shrub border. Many cultivars are available including ‘Elk River Red,’ ‘Pokey’s Pink,’ and ‘White Icicle.' Grow flowering currant in well-drained soil in full to part sun in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 8.

Find flowering currant from Planting Partners Nursery on Etsy.

Hopefully, this guide has made it a little easier to choose the perfect cold-hardy flowering shrub for your landscape!

Viburnum is a beautiful flowering shrub for the home landscape. Each spring, viburnum flowers open to offer growers both curb appeal and an enchanting fragrance. Seasonal interest extends year-round with many varieties, as the production of ornamental berries and evergreen foliage is common. While viburnum flowers are available in a range of colors, many growers prefer viburnum with white flowers. Below we have listed some of the most common varieties of viburnum with white flowers.

Popular Viburnum with White Flowers

1. ‘Eskimo’ - Hardy in USDA zones 6 through 8, viburnum varieties such as ‘Eskimo’ are covered with pure white blooms each spring. This low-maintenance plant is commonly used as a hedge or in privacy plantings, as it can reach upwards of 5 feet (1.5 m.) at maturity. Autumn foliage of this viburnum is highly ornamental, ranging in color from yellow to an intense orange-red. 
2. ‘Popcorn’ - One of the larger viburnum cultivars available, ‘Popcorn’ viburnum produces a profusion of large ball-shaped flower clusters. Often described as an early bloomer, this plant is able to withstand less than ideal growing conditions with ease. Each fall landscapers can expect the leaves to change from a deep green color to varying shades of red and purple. 
3. ‘Raulston Hardy’ - This plant is among the smaller varieties of viburnum with white flowers available. Due to its small size, ‘Raulston Hardy’ is best planted in short flower borders or near foundations. Still, the plant has proven itself to be highly adaptable and able to thrive under a wide range of garden soil conditions. 
4. ‘Roseum’ - ‘Roseum’ is a variety within Viburnum opulus. These viburnum cultivars are among the largest available, reaching up to 12 feet (4 m.) in height. ‘Roseum’ viburnum flowers are also among the most prominent and showy. Unlike other viburnum varieties, this plant’s flowers will not produce seeds after bloom.
5. ‘Summer Snowflake’ - ‘Summer Snowflake’ differs from many other viburnums with white flowers in terms of bloom structure and shape. Each cluster of flowers open in a uniform flat shape, rather than the common rounded inflorescence. This viburnum grows as a deciduous shrub in most of its growing zone.

In recent years, the cultivation of native plant species has seen significant growth. Whether converting a yard space to a more natural habitat for wildlife or seeking beautiful low maintenance landscape options, gardeners have started to explore the use of plants to support local ecosystems. Possumhaw viburnum shrubs are right at home in a carefree natural planting.

What is Possumhaw Viburnum?

Possumhaw viburnums (Viburnum nudum) are native to the southeastern United States. This viburnum is often confused with winterberry (or winter holly), which goes by the same common name. It is important to note the difference between possumhaw and winterberry. Though winterberry plants grow in similar conditions, these plants do not belong to the same family, nor are they related in any way.

Found in low lying areas, possumhaw plants do well when grown in soils that are consistently moist. Lush green plants produce glossy leaves and small flat-top white flower clusters throughout the growing season. After flowering, the plant produces attractive pinkish berries that mature to dark blue, and benefit pollinators and other wildlife. In fact, its “possumhaw” name derives from frequent visits of possums that also enjoy the fruit.

As the weather begins to change in the fall, plant foliage begins to turn a highly attractive reddish pink color.

How to Grow Possumhaw

Growing possumhaw viburnum shrubs is relatively simple. They are commonly available for purchase as transplants. However, more experienced gardeners may choose to grow their own plants from seed. Though this shrub is native to many regions, it is important to respect established plant populations in the wild by not disturbing them.

Hardy to USDA zone 5b, the most important aspect of growing possumhaw viburnum is choosing the ideal planting location. As mentioned, these plants are adaptable to soils which range in moisture level. In fact, possumhaw is specifically known to do well when planted in wetter than average garden beds. These shrubs will also grow best when receiving full sun to part shade.

Beyond transplant, viburnum plant care is minimal. Specifically, some irrigation may be required during periods of prolonged heat and drought. Otherwise, these tough viburnum shrubs are able to withstand most insect and disease pressure without issue.

Most shrubs are impressive for a season. They might offer flowers in spring or fiery fall colors. Viburnums are among the most popular shrubs for home gardens since they provide many seasons of garden interest. However, not every gardener has a space big enough to accommodate these large shrubs.

If this is your situation, help is on the way as new dwarf viburnum varieties have developed. These compact viburnum plants offer the same multi-season pleasure, but in a smaller size. Read on for information about small viburnum shrubs.

Dwarf Types of Viburnum

If you are a gardener with a smaller yard, you won’t be able to plant the Koreanspice viburnum (Viburnum carlesii), the shade tolerant shrub with intoxicatingly fragrant spring flowers. This variety can grow to 8 feet (2 m.) tall, a formidable size for a small garden.

Given the demand, the marketplace has responded with smaller cultivars so you can now start growing dwarf viburnums. These dwarf types of viburnum grow slowly and stay compact. You’ll have your pick since there are several small varieties available in commerce. What better name for a compact viburnum plant than Viburnum carlesii ‘Compactum?’ It has all the great attributes of the regular, larger size plant but tops out at half the height.

If your dream shrub is American cranberry (Viburnum opulus var. americanum syn. Viburnum trilobum), you’re probably attracted to its flowers, fruits, and fall color. Like other full-size viburnums, it shoots up to 8 feet (2 m.) tall and wide. There is a compact variety (Viburnum trilobum ‘Compactum’), however, that stays at half the size. For lots of fruit, try Viburnum trilobum ‘Spring Green.’

You may have seen arrowwood (Viburnum dentatum) in a hedge. These large and attractive shrubs thrive in all soil types and exposures, growing to 12 feet (around 4 m.) in both directions. Look for the dwarf viburnum varieties, like ‘Papoose,’ only 4 feet (1 m.) tall and wide.

Another large, yet magnificent, shrub is the European cranberry bush (Viburnum opulus), with eye-catching flowers, generous crops of berries, and fiery autumn color. It grows to 15 feet (4.5 m.) tall though. For truly small gardens, you can select Viburnum opulus ‘Compactum,’ that stays to a relatively modest 6 feet (almost 2 m.) in height. Or go for truly small with Viburnum opulus ‘Bullatum,’ which doesn’t get above 2 feet (61 cm.) tall and wide.

Growing dwarf viburnums in the landscape is a great way to enjoy these lovely shrubs without taking up the additional space.

Nannyberry plants (Viburnum lentago) are large native tree-like shrubs native to the U.S. They have glossy foliage that turns red in fall as well as attractive fruit. For more information about nannyberry shrubs, or information on how to grow nannyberries, read on.

Nannyberry Plant Info

Shrub or tree? You decide. Nannyberry plants mature to about 18 feet (5.5 m.) tall and 10 feet wide (3 m.), making them fit the definition of a small tree or a large shrub. It is a type of viburnum commonly grown for its ornamental appeal. Nannyberry shrubs are very ornamental with their shiny green leaves with serrated edges. Then there are the ivory flowers that appear in late spring, flat-topped inflorescences as wide as your palm. Each groups numerous tiny blossoms. These flowers develop into a colorful mixture of different colored fruits, some light green, others pale yellow or red-pink, and all in the same cluster. They darken into blue-black and mature from fall through early winter. Wild birds delight in this banquet.

How to Grow Nannyberries

Growing nannyberry viburnum shrubs isn’t difficult, considering that this is a native plant and doesn’t need to be coddled. Begin cultivation by looking for a full sun location. This will help prevent powdery mildew. They will thrive in partial shade as well. For soil, select a site that is well draining if possible. The plant will adapt to poor or compacted soils, dry or wet soils as well though. It also adapts well to moderate heat, drought, and urban pollution. Nannyberry care is fairly simple. Nannyberry shrubs thrive in USDA plant hardiness zones 2 through 8, so those in hot climates are out of luck. You won’t spend much time nursing these shrubs. Nannyberry plants have no serious pest or disease problems. The only thing to watch for is powdery mildew if air circulation is poor. This disease appears in late summer, covering the shiny leaves with whitish powder. Although making the leaves less attractive, powdery mildew doesn’t damage the plant. One other issue requiring nannyberry care is the plant’s tendency to sucker abundantly as it gets older. It can form a large thicket or colony. If you do not want this to happen, make removing suckers part of your care regimen.

Viburnums are a diverse group of flowering shrubs that are very popular in the garden. Unfortunately, they’re often preyed upon by a wide range of pests. Keep reading to learn more about the insects affecting viburnums and how to go about controlling viburnum insect pests.

Common Pests on Viburnum

Here are some of the most common viburnum pests and methods for viburnum pest control. Aphids – While they don’t cause much damage, aphids can cause curling in new growth. They can be gotten rid of with a steady stream of water from the hose, insecticidal soap, or horticultural oil. Thrips – Thrips can cause purple spots on leaves, curled and dropped leaves, and dropped, unopened flower buds. Try to prevent thrips by keeping weeds under the shrub to a minimum. Spray with insecticidal soap, if necessary, but be careful, as there are many beneficial insects that feed on thrips. You can also introduce beneficial insects such as lacewings, ladybugs, and predatory mites to the garden. Southern Red Spider Mites – The leaves turn gray/brown and drop when these red spider mites are present. Mites can be knocked off with a strong spray from the hose or treated with insecticidal soap. Scale – Armored scale cause leaf drop, discolored leaves, and stunted growth. Light infestations of scale bugs can be scraped off by hand, and heavier ones can be treated with insecticide. Other insects affecting viburnums include: Weevils – Weevils chew on the edges of leaves. While they’re not usually dangerous, the damage isn’t pretty. Spray the leaves and ground below the shrub with insecticidal spray to kill the adults. Repeat every two to three weeks to kill each generation. Asiatic Garden Beetles – Flowers, leaves, and new growth is skeletonized when Asiatic garden beetles are around. Common types include the Japanese beetle. Remove adults by hand and introduce nematodes to the soil. Dogwood Twig Borers – Dogwood borers will dig out holes in the stems, leaving sawdust behind. Crush eggs in early summer. Stick a wire into every hole you find to kill the borer inside. Viburnum Leaf Beetles – Plant resistant viburnum varieties to avoid viburnum leaf beetles. Prune away egg-infested branches during the winter. Introduce lacewings as beneficial insects.

What causes viburnum leaf curl? When viburnum leaves are curling, there’s a good chance that pests are to blame, and aphids are the usual suspects. Read on to learn about treating viburnum leaf curl caused by aphids.

Aphids and Leaf Curl in Viburnums

Aphids are common pests of viburnums. The tiny insects are easy to miss at first glance, but you may find them in mobs clustered on the undersides of leaves. Although there are many types of aphids, snowball aphids, bluish-gray pests that look like they’ve been lightly dusted with white powder, are a particular enemy of viburnum and certain types of cranberry bushes. As aphids suck the sweet sap from tender new growth, viburnum leaves take on a twisted, distorted appearance.

Thrips and Leaf Curl in Viburnums

Although thrips aren’t quite as common as aphids, they too can cause leaf curl in viburnums. These pesky flying insects are so tiny, and they move so fast, that you may need a magnifying glass to spot them. However, like aphids, they suck the sap from the plants, causing tiny purplish spots followed by rolling or curling viburnum leaves.

Treating Viburnum Leaf Curl

Both aphids and thrips are relatively easy to control with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, but control usually requires repeat treatment every week or so. Cover the leaves thoroughly, both the tops and undersides. Don’t spray when the sun is shining directly on the leaves or when the temperature is above 85 degrees F. (29 C.). Encourage beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps in your garden, as they are the most effective means of controlling aphids, thrips, and many other pests. The best way to ensure these friendly insects stick around is to avoid chemicals like the plague. Pesticides and other toxic chemicals kill beneficial insects and create an atmosphere in which harmful pests can flourish. Insecticidal soap sprays and horticultural oils aren’t as harmful because they kill only on contact and have no residual effect. However, hold off on spraying if you notice that ladybugs or other “good” bugs are present on the leaves.

Guelder rose is a flowering deciduous tree that goes by many names, including highbush cranberry, rose elder, snowball tree, and crampbark. The name guelder rose originates in the Gelderland province of the Netherlands, where a popular cultivar was supposedly developed. The tree is very attractive and easy to grow. Keep reading to learn more guelder rose information, like tips on guelder rose growing and how to care for a guelder rose viburnum.

Guelder Rose Viburnums

What is a guelder rose? Guelder rose viburnums (Viburnum opulus) are deciduous shrubs or trees that grow between 13 and 25 feet (4-8 m.) in height and 8 to 12 feet (2-4 m.) in spread, making them well-suited for smaller areas of the landscape. In late spring to early summer, they produce branching clusters of flowers that are usually white but sometimes shades of pink. The flowers give way in autumn to round berries that are red, blue, or black. These berries are mildly toxic and can cause nausea if they are eaten. The leaves are frequently mistaken for maple leaves. They are bright green in the summer and turn to orange and red in the fall.

How to Care for Guelder Rose Plants

Guelder rose growing is very easy and forgiving. The shrubs will grow in most varieties of soil, including chalk, clay, sand, and loam. That said, they prefer well-drained but moist soil. In the wild, the plants tend to grow in damp areas. They will also tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils. These viburnum shrubs will grow in anything from shade to full sun. Although the berries are mildly toxic raw, they can be cooked into an edible and tasty jam. When eaten, the bark of guelder rose viburnums is thought to have positive medicinal effects as an antispasmodic, earning the plant one of its common names-- crampbark.

It’s impossible not to love viburnums, with their shiny leaves, showy blossoms and clusters of bright berries. Unfortunately, these gorgeous shrubs can be prone to certain pests and diseases, especially if growing conditions are less than ideal. Often, pests or disease are to blame when a viburnum has yellow leaves. Sometimes, treating viburnums with yellow leaves simply involves a few changes in plant care. If you notice viburnum leaves turning yellow, read on for a few troubleshooting tips.

Pests Causing Yellow Leaves on Viburnum

Aphids can cause big problems for viburnums, including puckered, yellowing leaves. Spray aphids with insecticidal soap spray every couple of days, but never when temperatures are over 85 F. (29 C.). A few drops of rubbing alcohol added to the soap mixture creates an even greater punch. Secondly, use bait stations to eliminate nearby ants, as they protect aphids so they have unimpeded access to their sweet honeydew excretion. Scale is evidenced primarily by the waxy, shell-like bumps that cover the pests. Like aphids, scale is usually controlled with a mixture of insecticidal soap and a small amount of rubbing alcohol. Thrips can also be a problem, leading to leaf yellowing of viburnum leaves. Often, regular pruning helps get rid of these pests, so cut off affected parts. Also, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as soon as you see signs of damage. Root weevil adults feeding on foliage can be a problem, but it’s typically the larvae that cause pale green or yellow leaves on viburnum. Once again, insecticidal soap spray is an effective treatment, but a serious infestation may require use of chemical sprays. Be sure to spray the soil around the plants to kill root weevil adults in their daytime hiding places. Nematodes, tiny roundworms that live in the soil, may be the reason for viburnum leaves turning yellow. Dig a generous amount of composted leaves or other organic material into the soil around the plant to encourage beneficial bacteria that keeps roundworms in check. Pour fish emulsion around the plant to kill nematodes. Many gardeners plant marigolds around viburnum, as the roots tend to kill or repel nematodes.

Treating Diseased Viburnum with Yellow Leaves

Viburnum tends to be relatively disease-resistant, but they can be afflicted with various diseases. Here are a couple of problems to watch for: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that may cause blotchy, yellowing leaves on viburnum, especially during damp, cool weather. Remove and destroy damaged growth. Mulch around the shrub to keep water from splashing on the leaves. If the problem persists, apply a copper fungicide weekly during damp weather. Armillaria root rot is another fungus that commonly causes yellow leaves on viburnum, as well as a white fungal growth under the bark. The causes of armillaria root rot can be difficult to pinpoint and, currently, there is no treatment that guarantees control. However, proper plant care is critical. Thin the shrub to increase air circulation and be sure viburnum isn’t crowded too closely with other plants. Keep the shrub as dry as possible and don’t allow debris to build up at the base.

Are you looking for a showy shrub for a shady location where most shrubs fail to thrive? We may know just what you're looking for. Read on for tips on growing a leatherleaf viburnum plant.

Leatherleaf Viburnum Information

Leatherleaf viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophyllum) is one of a number of attractive viburnum shrubs. The leatherleaf viburnum's creamy white blossoms never fail, even when the shrub is planted in the shade. Bright red berries appear after the flowers fade, gradually changing to shiny black. The berries attract birds and last well into December.

In most parts of its range, leatherleaf viburnum is a broadleaf evergreen, but in the coolest areas, it is only semi-evergreen. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to care for this hard-working shrub.

Leatherleaf Viburnum Care

Growing leatherleaf viburnum is a snap in a location with either full sun or partial shade. It needs well-drained soil and isn't picky about the consistency. You can grow it in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8. It is deciduous in the cooler zones and evergreen in warmer areas. In zones 5 and 6, plant the shrub in an area protected from harsh winter winds and ice accumulation.

Leatherleaf viburnum needs very little care. As long as the soil is of average fertility or better, you don't need to fertilize. Water during prolonged periods of drought.

The shrub begins to form buds for next year's flowers soon after the current flowers drop off, so prune right after the flowers fade. You can rejuvenate overgrown or ragged leatherleaf viburnums by cutting them down to ground level and letting them regrow.

Plant leatherleaf viburnum shrubs in groups of three or five for the best effect. They also look great in mixed shrub borders where you can combine this mid spring blooming shrub with others that bloom in early spring, late spring, and summer for year-round interest.

It also looks great as a specimen plant where it makes a showy display in spring when the flowers are in bloom, and in summer and fall when the berries hang from the branches. The butterflies that visit the flowers and the birds that eat the berries add interest to the shrub as well.

Laurustinus viburnum (Viburnum tinus) is a small evergreen hedge plant, native to the areas around the Mediterranean. It’s definitely a shrub to consider planting if you live in USDA zone 8 or warmer. It offers white flowers and annual berries. Read on for more laurustinus plant information, including basic instructions for growing laurustinus shrubs.

Laurustinus Plant Information

Laurustinus viburnum is one of the short viburnum species, and even unpruned specimens rarely exceed 12 feet (4 m.) in height. Some cultivars, like Laurustinus Spring Bouquet, are much shorter. The dwarfed height is one of the key features that makes growing laurustinus shrubs popular. A gardener seeking a short hedge won’t need to prune every other week to keep the plant the right size. Laurustinus plant information states that these evergreen shrubs produce flower buds as early as January. The buds are pink or red, but the flowers open white. If you are growing Laurustinus shrubs, you’ll see the flowers give way to blue-black drupes. These viburnum drupes look like berries.

Growing Laurustinus Shrubs

If you live in a warm region, it’s easy to grow Laurustinus viburnum shrubs. They thrive in full sun but accept less, thriving even in dappled shade. Plant these bushes where the soil drainage is good. Other than requiring good drainage, Laurustinus shrubs are very tolerant of various soil types, including sand and even clay. Laurustinus are known to be drought tolerant, but the shrubs bloom more profusely with a little extra irrigation. Don’t forget to provide water during the months that follow planting.

Laurustinus Spring Bouquet

The most popular cultivar of this viburnum is Laurustinus Spring Bouquet. This cultivar thrives in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 10 in shade or sun. As previously stated, it is a dwarf cultivar. Each plant grows to only 4 feet tall (1 m.) but can get as wide as it is tall. It too sets its buds in winter, producing flattened clusters of small, pink balls that look like berries. As April rolls around and the air warms, these pink balls open up into fragrant white flowers. They smell like honey. By June, the blossoms are done flowering. They drop petals and give way to metallic blue berries.

The Koreanspice viburnum is a medium sized deciduous shrub that produces beautiful, fragrant flowers. With its small size, dense growing pattern and showy flowers, it’s an excellent choice for a specimen shrub as well as border plant. So how do you go about growing Koreanspice viburnum in your garden? Keep reading to learn more Koreanspice viburnum information.

Koreanspice Viburnum Information

Koreanspice viburnum (Viburnum carlesii) is one of over 150 known Viburnum plant species and cultivars. While viburnums can be both deciduous and evergreen and reach up to 30 feet in height, Koreanspice viburnum plants are deciduous and known for their relatively small, compact growing habit. They tend to grow to between 3 and 5 feet tall and wide, but they can reach as high as 8 feet in ideal growing conditions. Koreanspice viburnum plants produce 2 to 3-inch wide clusters of small flowers that begin pink and open to white in early to mid-spring. The flowers give off a rich scent that is similar to spice cake. These flowers are followed by blue-black berries. The 4-inch leaves are ridged and deep green. In autumn, they turn deep red to purple.

How to Grow Koreanspice Viburnums

The best conditions for growing Koreanspice viburnum plants include moist but well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Koreanspice viburnum care is very minimal. The plants don’t need much in the way of watering, and they suffer from very few pest and disease problems. They are hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, but they may need some winter protection, especially from the wind, in colder zones. Koreanspice viburnum plants should be pruned in the spring immediately after flowering has ended. The pruned green cuttings can be used effectively as starts if you’re looking to propagate new plants.

“A garden without a viburnum is akin to life without music or art,” said renowned horticulturist, Dr. Michael Dirr. With over 150 species of shrubs in the Viburnum family, most of them hardy down to zone 4, and heights between 2 and 25 feet (61 cm. and 8 m.), there are varieties that can fit into any landscape. With so much variety, it may be hard to sort through the pros and cons of each viburnum. You may find yourself saying, “Well this one has beautiful flowers, but this one has bright fall foliage, and this one…” Judd viburnum plants have all these pros. Continue reading for more Judd viburnum information.

Judd Viburnum Information

In 1920, horticulturist William H. Judd of the Arnold Arboretum crossed Koreanspice viburnum (Viburnum carlessi) with Bitchiu viburnum and created what we know today as the Judd viburnum or Viburnum juddii. Judd viburnum plants have the fragrant 3 inch (8 cm.), dome-shaped flowers of its parent plant Koreanspice. These flower buds start out pink, then open to a creamy white. They bloom for about 10 days in spring to early summer and attract pollinators who feast on the sweet nectar. Eventually, the spent flowers turn into dark black berries in late summer to fall, attracting birds. The blue-green foliage also turns a wine-red color in late summer and fall.

How to Grow a Judd Viburnum Plant

Judd viburnum plants are available for sale at garden centers and online, as potted plants or bare root stock. Hardy to zone 4, Judd viburnum grows 6 to 8 feet (2 m.) tall and wide in a rounded habit. They will grow in full sun to part shade but do best in slightly acidic, moist, but well-draining soil. Judd viburnum care is not too complicated. While a newly planted Judd viburnum’s roots are establishing, they will need regular deep watering. Once established, your Judd viburnum should only need watering in times of drought. It is not necessary to fertilize viburnums, but if you feel you need to, use a general 10-10-10 garden fertilizer. You can also use an acid fertilizer, like Hollytone or Miracid, once per growing season to give the soil a boost of acidity. Established viburnums require little care and are not bothered by many pests. Rabbit and deer even tend to avoid viburnums, but robins, cardinals, waxwings, bluebirds, thrushes, catbirds, and finches love the black fruit that persists in to winter. Most viburnums require little pruning, but can be pruned to maintain their shape and fullness in late fall to early spring, while dormant.

Wildlife will thank you if you plant Blackhaw, a small, dense tree with both spring flowers and autumn fruit. You’ll also get a joyful jolt of vibrant autumn color. Read on for Blackhaw tree facts as well as tips on growing a Blackhaw viburnum.

Blackhaw Tree Facts

Blackhaw tree facts suggest that this “tree” grows naturally as a large shrub, since Blackhaw viburnum trees (Viburnum prunifolium) don’t generally grow taller than 15 feet high. The plants, though small, offer a nice mix of blossoms, berries and fall foliage display. Slow-growing Blackhaw can spread to some 12 feet. Grown with multiple leaders, they serve as shrubs with dense foliage, perfect for screens or hedges. Prune your Blackhaw to grow with only one leader if you prefer a small tree. When you read up on Blackhaw tree facts, you learn how attractive the plant can be. The Blackhaw viburnum tree’s leaves are dark green, finely toothed and glossy. They are attractive all summer long. In May or June, the trees offer showy white flowers in flat-topped cymes. These clusters last about two weeks and attract butterflies. The flowers are followed by blue-black, berry-like drupes. This fruit often lasts well into winter, providing sought-after food for birds and small mammals. Gardeners can eat the fruits fresh or in jams too.

Growing a Blackhaw Viburnum

Once you’ve read up on Blackhaw tree facts, you may decide to start growing a Blackhaw viburnum. Your first step toward good Blackhaw viburnum care is to select an appropriate planting location. This is a shrub that grows in most cool and mild areas of the country. It thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 9. Position your new Blackhaw viburnum tree so that it gets at least four hours of direct sun a day. When it comes to soil, the Blackhaw isn’t particular as long as it has good drainage. It accepts loam and sand, and grows in both acidic and alkaline soil. When you are growing a Blackhaw viburnum in an appropriate location, it’s a very low-maintenance plant. Blackhaw viburnum care is minimal. Blackhaws tolerate drought once their roots are established. That said, Blackhaw viburnum care includes regular irrigation for the first growing season. If you are growing a Blackhaw viburnum as a specimen tree, you’ll need to prune off all leaders but the strongest. Prune this deciduous tree immediately after flowering in spring. The plant sets flowers in summer for the following growing season.

Mapleleaf viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium) is a common plant of Eastern North America on hillsides, forests and ravines. It is a prolific plant that produces a favorite food for many wild animals. Its cultivated cousins are often used as multi-season ornamentals and offer a host of beautiful changes over the year. Mapleleaf viburnum shrubs are hardy additions to the landscape and work perfectly in planned native gardens. Read further to learn how to care for a Mapleleaf viburnum and what surprises you can expect from this plant.

Mapleleaf Viburnum Information

Few plants offer both the statuesque beauty and constant seasonal interest as the Mapleleaf viburnum. These plants are easy to establish through seed or their abundant rhizomous suckers. In fact, over time mature plants form thickets of colonized young volunteers. Added to this is their drought tolerance, ease of care and abundant wildlife food, which makes growing Mapleleaf viburnums winning plants for the garden, with durable hardiness in most USDA zones. Mapleleaf viburnum care is almost non-existent once plants establish and provide useful color and wildlife food and cover. As the name would imply, the leaves resemble small maple tree leaves, 2 to 5 inches (5 to 12.7 cm.) long. Leaves are 3-lobed, dully green and with small black spots on the undersides. The green color makes way to a lovely reddish-purple in autumn, with the rest of the plant adorned by showy pea-sized bluish-black fruits. During the growing season, the plant produces cymes of tiny white flowers up to 3 inches (7.6 cm.) across. Mapleleaf viburnum shrubs can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 m.) tall and 4 feet (1.2 m.) wide but are generally smaller in the wild. The fruits are attractive to song birds but will also draw wild turkeys and ring-necked pheasants. Deer, skunks, rabbitsand moosealso seem to like to nibble on the bark and foliage of the plants.

How to Care for a Mapleleaf Viburnum

Plants prefer moist loam but can perform quite well in more arid soil conditions. When planted in dry soil, it does best in partial to full shade. As suckers develop, the plant produces a delightful stepped form, with layers of the airy flowers and shiny fruits in their seasons. Choose a site for growing Mapleleaf viburnums that is partially shaded and use the plants as understory greenery. They are also suitable for container use, as well as borders, foundations and hedges. In their natural range, they are quite attracted to lakes, streams and rivers. Use Mapleleaf viburnum alongside other dry shade plants such as Epimedium, Mahonia, and Oakleaf hydrangeas. The effect will be elegant and yet wild, with many different sights to capture the eyes from spring to early winter. In the early stages of the plant's growth, it is important to provide supplemental irrigation until the roots have established. If you do not wish a thicket of plants, thin out the suckers annually to keep the main plant in focus. Pruning doesn't enhance the form of the plant but it is relatively tolerant to cutting if you wish to keep it in a smaller form. Prune in late winter to early spring. When establishing a large space with this viburnum, plant each specimen 3 to 4 feet (1.2 m.) apart. The effect en masse is quite appealing. Mapleleaf viburnum has few pest or disease issues and rarely needs supplemental fertilizing. A simple organic mulch applied annually to the root zone provides all the nutrients you need for good Mapleleaf viburnum care.

Native to China, David viburnum (Viburnum davidii) is a showy evergreen shrub that displays attractive, glossy, blue green foliage year-round. Clusters of small white flowers in spring give way to colorful, metallic blue berries that attract songbirds to the garden, often well into the winter months. If this has piqued your interest, read on for more David viburnum information.

Growing David Viburnum Plants

David viburnum is a small rounded shrub that reaches heights of 24 to 48 inches (0.6-1.2 m.) with widths about 12 inches (31 cm.) more than the height. The shrub is evergreen in USDA plant hardiness zones 7 through 9, but it may be deciduous in the northern edges of that range. Growing David viburnum plants isn’t difficult, as this is a hardy, low-maintenance plant with no serious threat from pests or disease. Plant at least two plants in close proximity, as female plants require a male pollinator in order to produce berries. David viburnum is easy to grow in average, well-drained soil and either full sun or partial shade. However, the shrub benefits from a location with afternoon shade if you live in a climate with hot summers.

David Viburnum Care

Caring for Viburnum davidii is also uninvolved.

• Water the plant regularly until it is established. From that point, water during extended periods of hot, dry weather.
• Fertilize the shrub after blooming using a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
• A layer of mulch keeps the roots cool and moist in summer.
• Trim as needed in late winter or early spring.

To propagate David viburnum, plant seeds outdoors in autumn. David viburnum propagation is also easily accomplished by taking cuttings in summer.

Is David Viburnum Poisonous?

Viburnum davidii berries are mildly toxic and may cause stomach upset and vomiting when eaten in large quantities. Otherwise, the plant is safe.

Viburnums are one of the most popular ornamental plants. Southern Arrowwood viburnums are no exception. These native North American plants have all the charm of their introduced cousins plus a hardiness to a variety of climates that makes them very useful in the landscape. As an added bonus, Southern Arrowwood shrub care is a breeze since the plant has no serious plant or disease issues and is adaptable to many soil types and exposures. Learn how to grow Southern Arrowwood so you can enjoy this versatile native plant in your garden.

Southern Arrowwood Information

Southern Arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) is a plant of the open woods and marginal sites of our forests, mountains and even roadways. It prefers a partially sunny location but can thrive in full sun. The name Arrowwood likely came from Native American men using the wood to fashion arrow shafts. In the landscape, it is very adaptable and produces an attractive multi-stemmed shrub. Like all viburnums, it has three distinct seasons of interest. Try growing Southern Arrowwood as a part of a native garden, border or screen. This native viburnum can grow 3 to 9 feet (1-3 m.) tall with an impressive spread of up to 8 feet (2.4 m.) in width. The multiple stems form an arching crown with numerous suckers joining in the fun over time. The foliage is oval to oblong with gently toothed margins, shiny green above and paler, duller green below. These leaves are 1 ½ to 4 inches (4-10 cm.) in length and are the first spectacle on parade. Foliage turns a rich red, yellow or even reddish purple in fall. The plant produces tiny white flowers in corymbs. These develop into ¼ inch (.6 cm.) blue-black drupes, which is very attractive to wildlife. A historical piece of Southern Arrowwood information is its use as a medicinal. All parts of the plant were once used in different preparations to assist in healing the body.

How to Grow Southern Arrowwood Viburnum

Southern Arrowwood viburnums are some of the easiest plants to grow. This viburnum has a fibrous root system, which makes it easy to transplant. That said, to source the plants, please do not go out into your local forest and harvest them, as they are important parts of the natural ecosystem. Growing Southern Arrowwood from suckers or stem cuttings is relatively easy if you wish to propagate the plant. Seeds require stratification and can be capricious regarding germination. Situate your Southern Arrowwood viburnum in partial sun with average moisture and fertility for best growth and production. However, beautiful plants can still result in full sun and the plant has a modest tolerance for drought once established.

Southern Arrowwood Shrub Care

Viburnums are notoriously tough plants that require very little special maintenance and care. Southern Arrowwood performs best with occasional pruning to maintain shape and rejuvenate the plant. If you don't want the plant to spread into a large thicket, keep the suckers at the base pruned away. The best time to prune is after flowering. Control weeds and provide supplemental irrigation for young plants and mature shrubs in extremely dry conditions. Watch for viburnum leaf beetles and control using horticultural oil as needed. Other than that, this viburnum is a self-sufficient specimen of beauty that will provide seasonal displays for you and for the many birds and insects that are also attracted to the plant.

Many of us gardeners have that one spot in our yards that is truly a pain to mow. You’ve considered filling the area with groundcover, but the thought of removing the grass, tilling up the soil, and planting dozens of little cells of perennial groundcover is overwhelming. Oftentimes, areas like this are tough to mow because of trees or large shrubs that you have to maneuver around and under. These trees and shrubs can shade out other plants or make it difficult to grow much in the area except, of course, weeds. Generally, a large go-to plant for trouble areas, low growing viburnums can be used as a groundcover in out-of-the-way sunny or shady spots.

Low Growing Viburnums

When you think viburnum, you probably think of the common large viburnum shrubs, like snowball viburnum or arrowwood viburnum. Most viburnums are large deciduous or semi-evergreen shrubs hardy from zones 2 to 9. They grow in full sun to shade, depending on species. Viburnums are a popular choice because they tolerate tough conditions and poor soil, though most prefer slightly acidic soil. When established, most species of viburnum are also drought resistant. In addition to their easy growth habits, many have fragrant flowers in spring, and beautiful fall color with red-black berries that attract birds. So, you may be wondering, how can you use viburnums as groundcover, when they grow so tall? Some viburnums stay smaller and have a more spreading habit. However, like other shrubs such as burning bush or lilac, many viburnums listed as “dwarf” or “compact” can grow up to 6 feet (2 m.) tall. Viburnums can be cut back hard in late winter or early spring to keep compact. When pruning any shrub, though, the general rule of thumb is not to remove more than 1/3 of its growth. Therefore, a fast-growing shrub that matures to a height of 20 feet (6 m.) is eventually going to get big if you follow the rule of not cutting back more than 1/3 a year. Fortunately, most viburnums are slow growing.

Can You Use Viburnum as Groundcover?

With research, proper selection, and regular pruning, you can use viburnum groundcovers for problem areas. Pruning once a year is less maintenance than mowing weekly. Viburnums can also grow well in areas where perennial groundcovers may struggle. Below is a list of low growing viburnums that can perform as ground coverage: Viburnum trilobum ‘Jewell Box’ – hardy to zone 3, 18 to 24 inches (46-61 cm.) tall, 24 to 30 inches (61-75 cm.) wide. Rarely produces fruit but has burgundy fall foliage. V. trilobum ‘Alfredo,’ ‘Bailey’s Compact,’ and ‘Compactum’ all grow about 5 feet (1.5 m.) tall and wide with red berries and red-orange fall color. Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus) – the variety ‘Bullatum’ is hardy to zone 3 and is 2 feet (61 cm.) tall and wide. Rarely produces fruit and also burgundy fall color. Another small V. opulus is ‘Nanum,’ hardy to zone 3 and grows 2 to 3 feet (61-91 cm.) tall and wide, producing red fruit and red-maroon fall color. David Viburnum (Viburnum davidii) – hardy to zone 7, growing 3 feet (91 cm.) tall and 5 feet (1.5 m.) wide. It has evergreen foliage and must have part shade as the plant will scorch in too much sun. Mapleleaf Viburnum (Viburnum acerfolium) – hardy to zone 3 and gets anywhere from 4 to 6 feet (1-2 m.) tall and 3 to 4 feet (1 m.) wide. This viburnum produces red fall berries with pink-red-purple fall foliage. It also needs part shade to shade to prevent scorching. Viburnum atrocyaneum – hardy to zone 7 with a smaller stature of 3 to 4 feet (1 m.) tall and wide. Blue berries and bronze-purple fall foliage. Viburnum x burkwoodii ‘American Spice’ – hardy to zone 4, growing 4 feet (1 m.) tall and 5 feet (1.5 m.) wide. Red berries with orange-red fall foliage. Viburnum dentatum ‘Blue Blaze’ – hardy to zone 3 and reaches 5 feet (1.5 m.) tall and wide. Produces blue berries with red-purple fall foliage. Viburnum x ‘Eskimo’ – this viburnum is hardy to zone 5, having a 4 to 5 foot (1-1.5 m.) height and spread. It produces blue berries and semi-evergreen foliage. Viburnum farreri ‘Nanum’ – hardy to zone 3 and 4 feet (1 m.) tall and wide. Red fruit with red-purple fall foliage. Possumhaw (Viburnum nudum) - the cultivar ‘Longwood’ is hardy to zone 5, reaches 5 feet (1.5 m.) tall and wide, and develops pink-red-blue berries with pink-red fall foliage. Japanese snowball (Viburnum plicatum) – ‘Newport’ is hardy to zone 4 with a 4 to 5 feet (1-1.5 m.) tall height and spread. It rarely produces berries but produces burgundy fall color. ‘Igloo’ is hardy to zone 5 becoming 6 feet (2 m.) tall and 10 feet (3 m.) wide. It has scarlet red berries and red fall color. Must grow in shade.

Viburnum is the name given to a very diverse and populous group of plants native to North America and Asia. There are over 150 species of viburnum, as well as countless cultivars. Viburnums range from deciduous to evergreen, and from 2 foot shrubs to 30 foot trees (0.5-10 m.). They produce flowers that are sometimes extremely fragrant and sometimes downright nasty smelling. With so many varieties of viburnum available, where do you even begin? Keep reading to learn about some of the common viburnum varieties and what sets them apart.

Common Types of Viburnum Plants

Choosing varieties of viburnum for the garden begins with checking your growing zone. It’s always a good idea to ensure whichever type you choose will thrive in your area. What are the most common viburnum varieties? Here are a few popular types of viburnum plants: Koreanspice – Large, pink clusters of fragrant flowers. 5 to 6 feet (1.5-2 m.) tall, green foliage turns bright red in autumn. Compact variety reaches only 3 to 4 feet (1 m.) in height. American Cranberry – American cranberry viburnum reaches 8 to 10 feet (2.5-3 m.) in height, produces red edible fruits in the fall. Several compact varieties top out at 5 to 6 feet (1.5-2 m.) tall. Arrowwood – Reaches 6 to 15 feet (2-5 m.) tall, produces scentless white flowers and attractive dark blue to black fruits. Its foliage changes dramatically in the fall. Tea – Grows 8 to 10 feet (2.5-3 m.) high, produces modest white flowers followed by very high yields of bright red berries. Burkwood – Reaches 8 to 10 feet (2.5-3 m.) high. It’s very tolerant of heat and pollution. It produces fragrant flowers and red to black fruit. Blackhaw – One of the big ones, it can reach 30 feet (10 m.) in height, though it usually stays closer to 15 feet (5 m.). It does well in sun to shade and most soil types. A tough, drought-hardy tree, it has white flowers and black fruit. Doublefile – One of the most attractive viburnums, it grows 10 feet high and 12 feet wide (3-4 m.) in an even spreading pattern. Produces beautiful, large white flower clusters. Snowball – similar in appearance to and oftentimes confused with the snowball hydrangea, this viburnum variety is quite common in garden landscapes.

Viburnum is one of the most versatile and beautiful ornamental plants, with several seasons of interest. Like many woody plants, propagating viburnum from cuttings is the most effective way to replicate the bush. 

Viburnum plant cuttings can come from either softwood or hardwood, but a few techniques and tricks are necessary to enhance rooting and ensure your new plants thrive. Learn how to propagate viburnum from cuttings and save a bundle by growing your own stock of these wonderful plants.

When to Take Cuttings from Viburnum

Viburnum plants are primarily native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, although some occur in South America, Southeast Asia, and across Russia and the Ukraine. Plants have attractive lightly scalloped leaves, stunning flowers, and clusters of small fruits. 

Propagating viburnum can ensure an exact cloned plant from the parent while giving an interesting look into the practices that successful growers employ. One of the most important aspects of propagation through cuttings is timing. 

Every plant is different, but viburnum can be propagated either by soft or hardwood cuttings. Hardwood will be a bit more difficult to root, while rooting viburnum cuttings taken in mid to late spring, which are softwood cuttings, tend to root much easier. Hardwood viburnum plant cuttings are already dormant and are rigid with plant cells in an inactive state of growth. 

Autumn, after leaves have fallen, is the best time to take hardwood cuttings, but success has been achieved with those taken in the dead of winter as well. For the novice, spring is probably your best bet as to when to take cuttings from viburnum. 

Plant cells are awakening and ready to grow, which increases the chances of a quicker and more successful rooting.

Viburnum from Softwood Cuttings

Viburnum plant cuttings should always be taken with sterile, sharp instruments. Keep softwood cuttings moist and use immediately for best results. The best size is a 4 to 6 inch (10-15 cm.) section from vigorous shoots. Time of day is also important. 

Take specimens in the morning, preferably after a rain. Remove the leaves from the lower third of the cutting. Provide a rooting medium of 1 part peat and 1 part perlite or substitute horticultural sand for the perlite, if preferred. 

Pre-moisten the rooting medium. Rooting hormones can enhance rooting but are not strictly necessary. Remember, you only need a touch on the cut end of the stem. Insert the cut end into the prepared medium one-third to one-half its length. 

Cover with plastic and set containers in indirect light. Keep the medium lightly moist and mist the cuttings occasionally to keep them moist. Rooting time is variable but check by gently tugging on the cutting in four weeks.

Viburnum from Hardwood Cuttings

Rooting viburnum cuttings from hardwood can be a bit more difficult. Here a rooting hormone is definitely recommended. Take an angled cutting of 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm.), with several growth nodes. 

Remove any leaves on the cutting and dip the cut end into water, then into a small amount of rooting hormone. You may use the same medium you use for softwood cuttings or a mixture of 40 percent peat moss and 60 percent perlite. Cuttings can be set into containers at two-thirds their length and then treated the same as softwood cuttings. 

Some growers also had success simply setting plants into appropriate media in a cold frame or basement. Rooting may be slower because heat does speed up the process, but the cutting will survive with light watering and rooting will emerge quickly in spring.

Viburnum is a popular landscape shrub that produces attractive springtime flowers followed by colorful berries that attract songbirds to the garden well into winter. When the temperature begins to drop, the foliage, depending on the variety, lights up the autumn landscape in shades of bronze, burgundy, bright crimson, orange-red, bright pink, or purple. This huge, diverse group of plants includes more than 150 species, most of which display glossy or dull green foliage, often with contrasting pale undersides. However, there are a few types of variegated leaf viburnums with splashy, mottled leaves. Read on to learn more about three popular types of variegated viburnum.

Variegated Viburnum Plants

Here are the three most commonly grown types of variegated viburnum plants: Wayfaringtree viburnum (Viburnum lantana ‘Variegatum’) – This evergreen shrub displays large green leaves splashed with flecks of gold, chartreuse, and creamy yellow. This is, indeed, a colorful plant, beginning with creamy blooms in spring, followed by light green berries that soon ripen from red to reddish purple or black by late summer. Laurustinus viburnum (Viburnum tinus ‘Variegatum’) – Viburnums with variegated leaves include this stunner, also known as Laurenstine, with glossy leaves marked with irregular, creamy yellow edges, often with patches of pale green in the leaf centers. The fragrant blooms are white with a slight pink tint, and the berries are red, black, or blue. This viburnum is evergreen in zones 8 through 10. Japanese viburnum (Viburnum japonicum ‘Variegatum’) – Types of variegated viburnum include the variegated Japanese viburnum, a shrub that shows off shiny, dark green leaves with distinct, golden yellow splashes. The star-shaped white flowers have a slightly sweet aroma and the clusters of berries are bright red. This gorgeous shrub is evergreen in zones 7 through 9.

Caring for Variegated Leaf Viburnums

Plant variegated leaf viburnums in full or partial shade to preserve the color, as variegated viburnum plants will fade, losing their variegation and turning solid green in bright sunlight.

Japanese snowball trees (Viburnum plicatum) are likely to win a gardener’s heart with their lacy white globes of flower clusters hanging heavy on the branches in spring. These large shrubs look like they could require a lot of maintenance, but Japanese snowball care is really quite easy. Read on for more Japanese snowball information, including how to plant a Japanese snowball tree.

About Japanese Snowball Trees

Topping out at 15 feet (5 m.), Japanese snowball trees might better be termed shrubs. Japanese snowball shrubs grow in a range of 8 to 15 feet (2-5 m.) for mature height, and a little larger for mature spread.

Snowballs are upright, multi-stemmed shrubs. Japanese snowball trees flower heavily in spring. The pure white clusters appear in April and May, some reaching 4 inches (10 cm.) wide. The clusters include both showy, five petaled infertile flowers and small fertile flowers.

Butterflies enjoy visiting snowball trees' flowers. The fruits of the Japanese snowball ripen as summer wanes. The small oval fruits mature in late summer, turning from red to black.

Japanese snowball fruits are a source of food for wild birds. The rounded, green leaves of Japanese snowball trees are attractive and create dense foliage in summer. They turn yellow, red, or purple in fall, then drop, revealing the shrub’s interesting branching structure in winter.

How to Plant a Japanese Snowball Tree

If you want to learn how to plant a Japanese snowball tree, you’ll be happy to hear that it isn’t difficult. These shrubs thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8, where they are extremely easy to grow.

Plant the seedlings in part shade or full sun in well-draining soil. They tolerate many different kinds of soil as long as the drainage is good, but they do best in moist, slightly acidic loam.

These plants are drought-tolerant once established. However, early Japanese snowball care includes generous irrigation for the first growing season.

Gardeners are happy to hear that Japanese snowball trees have no serious insect pests and are not subject to any serious diseases.

Growing sweet viburnum bushes (Viburnum odoratissimum) adds the delightful element of fragrance to your garden. This member of the large viburnum family offers showy, snowy, spring blossoms with a very appealing scent. For sweet viburnum information including how to care for sweet viburnum, read on.

Sweet Viburnum Information

The extremely fragrant flowers of the sweet viburnum are tiny, but the shrub is enormous. At 20 feet (6 m.) tall, it qualifies as a small tree. In springtime, the entire canopy is covered with the tiny blossoms. This has long made it a landscape favorite. Growing sweet viburnum bushes is recommended in warmer regions of the country, like coastal areas. The species thrives in USDA plant hardiness zones 8b through 10a. According to sweet viburnum information, this area includes the southern coast from Florida through eastern Texas and the entire Pacific Coast.

Sweet Viburnum Growing Conditions

If you are thinking of growing sweet viburnum bushes, you’ll want to figure out optimal sweet viburnum growing conditions. The tree thrives in either full sun or partial shade, and accepts almost any type of soil, including clay and sand, as long as it drains well. It does well in both acidic and alkaline soil. On the other hand, ideal sweet viburnum growing conditions do not include salty soil. It also has low aerosol salt tolerance.

How to Care for Sweet Viburnum

Sweet viburnum care is delightfully simple, as long as you plant the tree in an appropriate site. This large shrub establishes quickly in either a full sun or a shady location. It needs irrigation for the first growing seasons. However, once it establishes a solid root system, it grows perfectly happily without much irrigation. Although the tree is relatively maintenance free, you’ll want to shape it and prune it to control the size. The canopy grows in just fine without pruning or training but snip out some of the interior sprouts and shoots to show off the trunk. If you plant the tree near a sidewalk, sweet viburnum care includes removing lower branches for pedestrian clearance. When you are growing sweet viburnum bushes, you probably won’t have many worries. Surface roots are usually not a problem, and the shrub’s long-term health is usually not threatened by pests.

The problem with using common plant names instead of the tongue-twisting Latin names that scientists assign them is that similar-looking plants often wind up with similar names. For instance, the name “snowball bush” can refer to a viburnum or a hydrangea. Find out the difference between viburnum and hydrangea snowball shrubs in this article.

Snowball Viburnum vs. Hydrangea

The old-fashioned snowball bush (Hydrangea arborescens), also called Anabelle hydrangea, produces large clusters of flowers that start out pale green and turn white as they mature. The Chinese snowball viburnum bush (Viburnum macrocephalum) is similar in appearance and also produces flowers that start pale green and age to white even though the two plants aren’t related. If you’re wondering how to tell snowball bushes apart, take a look at these characteristics:

• Snowball hydrangea shrubs grow 4 to 6 feet (1 to 2 m.) tall, while the viburnums grow 6 to 10 feet (2 to 3 m.) tall. If you’re looking at a shrub that is well over 6 feet (2 m.) tall, it is a viburnum.
• A snowball viburnum bush won’t tolerate a climate colder than U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 6. Snowball bushes growing in colder climates are probably hydrangeas.
• The hydrangeas have a much longer bloom period than the viburnums, with blossoms remaining on the shrub for as long as two months. Hydrangeas bloom in spring and may rebloom in fall, while viburnums bloom in summer.
• Hydrangeas have smaller flower heads that seldom exceed 8 inches (20.5 cm.) in diameter. Viburnum flower heads are 8 to 12 inches (20.5 to 30.5 cm.) across.

These two shrubs have similar requirements: they like light shade and moist but well-drained soil. Viburnum can tolerate drought in a pinch, but hydrangea is insistent about its moisture. The big difference is in the way the two shrubs are pruned. Cut hydrangeas back hard in late winter. This encourages them to come back lush and leafy in spring. Viburnums, on the other hand, need pruning right after the flowers fade. If you wait too long, you could lose next year’s beautiful flush of flowers.

If you love your vibrant viburnum hedge, you’ll want to keep viburnum leaf beetles away from your home. The larva of these leaf beetles can skeletonize viburnum leaves quickly and efficiently. However, getting rid of viburnum leaf beetles is far from easy. How to treat viburnum leaf beetles? Read on for information about the viburnum leaf beetle lifecycle and viburnum leaf beetle control.

What are Viburnum Leaf Beetles?

If you’ve never heard of this insect pest, you might ask: “What are viburnum leaf beetles?” Viburnum leaf beetles are small insects that feed on viburnum leaves. The beetles arrived fairly recently on the continent. They were first found in North America in 1947 in Canada and were not seen in the United States until 1996. Today, the pest is found in many eastern states. An adult viburnum leaf beetle is between 0.2 and 0.3 inches (4.5-6.5 mm.) long. The body is gold-gray, but the head, wing cover, and shoulders are brown. Larvae are yellow or green and twice as long as the adults. Both adults and larvae feed only on leaves of viburnum species. Larvae skeletonize the foliage, beginning on low branches. Only the rib and the veins remain when they are done. Adults also feed on the foliage. They chew circular holes into leaves.

Viburnum Leaf Beetle Lifecycle

One of the reasons that it is hard to control these leaf beetles involves the viburnum leaf beetle lifecycle. All summer long, females chew holes in the branches of the shrubs to lay eggs. About five eggs are inserted into each hole. The female caps off the hole with excrement and chewed bark. Each female lays up to 500 eggs. The next step in the viburnum leaf beetle lifecycle involves the eggs hatching out. This occurs the following spring. The larvae munch away on the foliage until June when they crawl into the soil and pupate. The adults emerge in July and lay eggs, completing the viburnum leaf beetle lifecycle.

How to Treat for Viburnum Leaf Beetles

If you want to learn about viburnum leaf beetle control, you’ll need to plan separate attacks for eggs. Your first step is to look very carefully at the young twigs of the viburnum in early spring. Try to spot eggs sites that swell and pop their covers as the weather warms. Prune out and burn all infected twigs that you find. If, even after pruning out the egg sites, you still have larvae, apply registered insecticides in the spring when larvae are small. It’s easier to kill larvae, which cannot fly away, than adults that can. Another good way to go about getting rid of viburnum leaf beetles is to plant less susceptible viburnums. Many are available in commerce.

A wide range of viburnum are available to home gardeners. Captivated by their beauty, passersby are sure to take notice of the large shrubs, covered each spring in masses of white, clustered flowers. In the landscape, hedge plantings of viburnum varieties can be used to create dynamic visual appeal and enhance privacy. Though not all viburnum are suited to use in this way, many more common species are ideal.

Which Varieties Are Best For Hedges?

Viburnum are praised for their ornamental nature and caring for viburnum is quite simple. When it comes to the creation of hedges, however, not all species can be treated equally. Overall height at maturity is a key characteristic in which to consider when planning a garden hedge. Viburnum hedge growth rate will vary, with many types able to establish themselves quickly, forming a dense border.

Others, with especially attractive flowers or foliage, may be best suited for use as a focal or statement plant within the landscape. Korean spice viburnum is one such example, producing both beautiful blooms and an alluring fragrance. Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most common species of viburnum used to plant hedges, as well as their special characteristics.

Arrowwood Viburnum

Arrowwood viburnum are one of several species of the plant that is native to the United States. This makes it a good choice for use in more naturalized spaces such as the edge of fields, streams, and even rivers. Plants will thrive in beds that receive part shade, producing large numbers of berries that are suitable for foraging wildlife.

Cinnamon-leaved Viburnum

An evergreen, cinnamon-leaved viburnum serves growers in the creation of dependable year-round interest. Thick, glossy leaves give hedged plants a lush, full appearance that lends itself to both beauty and privacy. Gardeners can expect the large shrubs to reach approximately 10-20 ft. (3-6 m.) in height at maturity.

Laurustinus Viburnum

Similar to other species, this viburnum has long been praised for its glossy evergreen foliage. Small, white-pink flowers add further ornamental interest throughout spring and into early summer. Shrubs are especially popular when used near homes or mixed borders, as they remain comparatively small. Viburnum laurustinus hedge spacing can vary depending upon the needs of growers. However, experts often suggest positioning each plant approximately 4 ft. (1.2 m.) apart for the best effect.

Nannyberry Viburnum

Native to much of the eastern United States, nannyberry viburnum is known for its hardiness and ease of growth. Reaching impressive sizes, disease-resistant plants are reported to tolerate poor soil conditions, warm weather, and drought with ease. Nannyberry adds to the landscape through the prolific production of berries and stunning fall foliage.

Snowball Viburnum

Snowball viburnum plants are among those most commonly found available at garden centers and growing within the landscape. Gardeners can expect large numbers of fragrant white flowers to first appear in spring, making the plant a favorite of early-season pollinators. Their compact size at maturity, reaching approximately 6-10 ft. (1.8-3 m.), makes them ideal for use as a small summer privacy hedge or as a natural fence between neighbors.

Sweet Viburnum

Viburnum odoratissimum grows best in warmer regions, USDA zones 8-10. Sweet viburnum hedge spacing can vary greatly, depending upon the needs of the gardener. Though the plants can be trimmed to maintain the desired size and shape, over-pruning can greatly diminish ornamental value. As well-established specimens can quickly overtake most growing spaces, gardeners should exercise caution when planting near homes and other structures, making certain that the shrubs are kept in-check.

Picking The Right Spot For A Viburnum Hedge

Picking the right viburnum for use as a hedge will depend upon a variety of factors. Foremost, growers will need to carefully consider the conditions within their garden. This means accounting for light, moisture, and fertility levels in relation to the planting site and the desired species’ specific needs. Viburnum hedge height will also play a role, with gardeners selecting those that are most suited to the space and their overall vision.

Determining The Best Spacing

How far apart to plant viburnum will also vary, requiring careful research regarding each plant’s size at maturity. Experienced gardeners often suggest generous spacing between each shrub. This will allow for optimal growth, ample airflow, and may even help to prevent the occurrence and/or spread of disease. Those wishing to create dense, screen-like hedges are most likely to opt for a much closer spacing.

How To Plant Viburnum For Best Hedges

Most types of viburnum that are appropriate for use in hedges can be found at local nurseries. Small transplants are most common and are a good option for growers looking to establish a beautiful landscape within a budget. Before moving plants into their final location, gardeners should ensure that each is adequately spaced, in accordance to its projected size at maturity. New plantings should then be watered well, with soil remaining consistently moist and free of weeds throughout the duration of the first growing season.

Best Care For Healthy Viburnum Hedges

Though viburnums are considered to be quite adaptable, routine care can help to keep plants looking their absolute best. This includes supplemental types of irrigation, when needed, as well as the use of fertilizers. Experienced growers suggest the use of a balanced slow-release feed, applied in spring. Regular feeding can continue throughout summer, with reduced frequency as the weather begins to cool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many gardeners decide to plant viburnum because it is usually pest free. However, sometimes the plant does have disease problems that cause brown viburnum leaves. Why do viburnum leaves turn brown? Read on for information about the different reasons you might see brown leaves on viburnum plants.

Viburnum Leaves Turning Brown

So why do viburnum leaves turn brown? In most cases, fungus is to blame. Below are the most common situations for browning in these plants:

Fungal spot or Anthracnose

Take a close look at your browning viburnum leaves. If they have irregular brown spots that are sunken and dry, they may have a fungal spot disease. The spots begin small but merge together and may appear red or gray. Among the most common causes for viburnum leaves turning brown or black are leaf spot diseases. Don’t panic. Leaf spot fungal diseases, as well as the fungal disease anthracnose, usually do not do lasting harm to your plants. Keeping leaves relatively dry is the key to preventing leaf spot diseases where leaves turn brown on viburnum. Do not use overhead irrigation and leave sufficient space between your plants for air to pass through. Rake up and burn the brown viburnum leaves that have fallen. If the brown leaves on viburnum are caused by leaf spot disease or anthracnose, you can treat the plants with fungicides available in commerce. For example, treat anthracnose by spraying the leaves with a copper fungicide.

Powdery or Downy Mildew

Mildew diseases can also be a reason leaves turn brown on viburnum species. Both powdery mildew and downy mildew can result in brown viburnum leaves as the foliage dies. You’ll see mildew diseases more often during times of humidity. Plants sited in shade suffer most from them. The tops of viburnum leaves infected by powdery mildew are covered with a powdery fungal growth. This usually happens in summer. Downy mildew causes light green spots mostly on the lower leaves. Leaves that die from these infections turn brown. If your leaves turn brown on viburnum because of mildew diseases, take steps to reduce water on them by using the same tips as for leaf spot diseases. You can also control mildew by spraying fungicides containing horticultural oil.

Rust

If the spots on your viburnum leaves are more rust-colored than brown, the plants may have a rust infection. This is also caused by various fungi. Viburnum leaves infected by rust will wither and die. This is a contagious disease, so you’ll want to destroy diseased plants in the spring before new growth starts.

Other reasons for leaf browning

Dog urine also causes viburnum leaves to brown. If you have a male dog that runs in your garden, this may explain the brown viburnum leaves.

Viburnums have layered branches that are coated in spring with lacy, delicate, and sometimes scented flowers. They are remarkably tough plants and suffer from few pest and insect issues. There are more than 150 species of Viburnum with many available for problem areas of the garden. Plants that are not well taken care of, however, can occasionally develop viburnum diseases, primarily fungal issues, especially if circulation is not provided.

Common Viburnum Diseases

Viburnum shrubs are very adaptable plants. That means they rarely have any disease issues. Common viburnum bush diseases encompass those caused by fungus, while other disease issues are rare. In most cases, correct siting of plants, adequate air circulation, and good watering practices can prevent these soil or air borne problems. Plants under stress are most prone to lasting damage from these types of illnesses.

Foliage

The most prevalent diseases affecting viburnums are fungal diseases of the foliage.

• Powdery mildew affects many types of plants, from ornamentals to vegetables. It is characterized by fine white dusty growth on the upper surfaces of leaves.
• Downy mildew causes leaves to develop splotched areas which die and shrivel in spring. It is most common when the weather is wet.
• Fungal leaf spots are caused by a different fungus, Cercospora or sometimes Anthracnose. Spots on leaves begin small but gradually develop. The area is angular and irregular and may be reddish to grayish brown. These tend to occur in warm, wet summer months.

The viburnum disease treatment for these types of plants is all the same. Avoid overhead watering, apply fungicide if the disease is rampant, and destroy damaged leaf material.

Roots

One of the most damaging diseases of viburnum is Armillaria root rot, also known as shoestring root rot or mushroom root rot. This is another fungus, but it affects the roots of the plant and can lead to death. Initially, the leaves and stems of the plant will appear stunted, yellow, and leaves may drop to the ground. As the disease works on, the roots of the bush will gradually get sicker and sicker. The process can take several years but eventually the tree will die. It can be hard to diagnose, as symptoms mimic other stresses such as lack of water or poor care. The upper crown and roots of the plant will pinpoint the cause if examined, however, and white fungal growth will be visible under the bark. If the root system is diseased and making its way into the trunk, the plant cannot be saved. This is one of the most dangerous of the viburnum bush diseases.

Bark and branches

Botryosphaeria canker is a serious disease of viburnum and many other ornamentals. It is characterized by dead or wilted leaves. The fungus produces fruiting bodies that show up on bark and branches as brown to black, plump bumps. Bark becomes dark brown. The fungus gets into the plants through some injury and destroys the cambium. Cankers form, which girdle the tree, effectively cutting off nutrients and water movement. Drought stressed bushes are mostly affected. Prune off affected material with sterilized pruners and provide consistent water and fertilizer over the season. There is no viburnum disease treatment for this ailment, but once the plant gains health, it can usually withstand the fungal attack.

Viburnum is a versatile shrub that is very popular in hedges and borders. Depending on the variety, it is usually evergreen and often changes color in the fall, and it produces brightly colored berries that often last through the winter. Best of all, in the spring it is completely overrun with highly fragrant tiny flowers. It is really a plant for all seasons that never fails to disappoint. Can you grow viburnum plants in pots though? Keep reading to learn more about growing viburnum in containers and caring for potted viburnum shrubs.

Container Grown Viburnums

Is container grown viburnums feasible? Yes, as long as you know what you’re getting into. Viburnums are sometimes called large shrubs and sometimes called small trees. In fact, some varieties can grow up to 30 feet (9 m.) in height, which is awfully big for a container plant. When growing viburnum in containers, it’s best to pick a small variety that will be more manageable.

• Mapleleaf viburnum is a good choice, as it grows slowly and usually tops out at 6 feet (2 m.) tall and 4 feet (1 m.) wide.
• The David viburnum stays at 3 to 5 feet (1-1.5 m.) tall and 4 to 5 feet (1-1.5 m.) wide.
• The compactum cultivar of the European cranberry bush is especially small, growing extremely slow and reaching only 2 feet (61 cm.) high and 3 feet (1 m.) wide over the course of ten years.

How to Care for Container Grown Viburnums

Pick the largest container you can manage. No matter the size of your container grown viburnums, however, caring for potted viburnum shrubs will still require well-drained, fertile soil. Additionally, viburnums grow best in full sun. That said, these shrubs can tolerate some shade. Although in-ground plants are somewhat tolerant of drought, container grown plants require more irrigation, especially when it’s hot. In fact, you may need to water the plants once a day, if not twice, when temps rise above 85 degrees F. (29 C.). Check the soil prior to watering to ensure they’re not receiving too much. You can help to maintain the size of viburnum plants in pots by pruning moderately in early spring.

It might surprise you to learn that the American highbush cranberry isn’t a member of the cranberry family. It is actually a viburnum, and it has many features that make it an ideal edible landscape shrub. Read on for American cranberry bush information.

American Cranberry Viburnum Information

The flavor and appearance of the fruit from highbush cranberry plants are a lot like true cranberries. The American cranberry (Viburnum opulus var. americanum) has tart, acidic fruit that is best served in jellies, jams, sauces and relishes. It is not very tasty raw. The fruit ripens in fall—just in time for the fall and winter holidays. Highbush cranberry plants are showy in spring when the flowers bloom against a backdrop of lush, dark green foliage. Like lacecap hydrangeas, the flower clusters have a center made up of small fertile flowers, surrounded by a ring of large, sterile flowers. These plants take center stage again in fall when they are loaded with bright red or orange berries that hang from stems like cherries.

How to Grow American Cranberry

Highbush cranberry plants are native to some of the coldest regions of North America. They thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 2 through 7. The shrubs grow up to 12 feet (3.7 m.) tall with a similar spread, so give them plenty of room. They need full sun or partial shade. More hours of direct sunlight means more berries. The plants tolerate poorly drained soil, but live longest when the soil is moist but well drained. When planting in the lawn, remove at least a four-foot (1.2 m.) square of sod and dig deeply to loosen the soil. Plant in the center of the square, and then mulch deeply to deter weeds. Highbush cranberries don’t compete well with grass and weeds, so you should keep the bed weed-free until the plant is a couple of years old. After two years, the shrub will be large and dense enough to shade out all but the most stubborn weeds.

Caring for American Cranberry

Caring for American cranberry bushes is easy. Water weekly in the absence of rain during the first year. In subsequent years, you only need to water during prolonged dry spells. If you have good soil, the plant probably won’t need fertilizer. If you notice that the leaf color begins to fade, use a small amount of nitrogen fertilizer. Too much nitrogen inhibits fruit. Alternatively, work an inch or two of compost into the soil. American cranberries grow and produce just fine without pruning, but they grow into massive plants. You can keep them smaller by pruning in spring after the flowers fade. If you’re fine with a huge plant, you might want to do a little pruning at the tips of the stems to keep the shrub looking neat and in control.

Their many shapes and sizes make viburnum shrubs ideal for practically any landscape, either as specimen plants or to add a little privacy. These lovely plants produce a riot of color in the fall, as well as berries and amazing blooms, giving them a lot of interest during the growing season and beyond. Non-flowering viburnums can be a huge disappointment, especially if your plant is well-established. Getting a viburnum shrub to bloom isn't rocket science, but it does require that you pay close attention to placement, care, and pruning.

Why Won't My Viburnum Bush Flower?

Viburnum problems are few and far between, but one of the most perplexing issues growers of this shrub face is a lack of blooms. If this is the first year you're growing a viburnum or you moved and found a viburnum in the new landscape, it may be that the bush is simply spent already. Most viburnum species only bloom for a few short weeks in the early summer and young viburnums almost always require a few years to establish their root systems before presenting their colorful display. Your mature viburnum needs full sun to bloom at its best and well-draining, acidic soil. Too much nitrogen in the soil, or added as a fertilizer, will encourage your bush to put out a lot of lush, vegetative growth instead of putting energy into forming blooms. Viburnums near fertilized lawns may be soaking up excess nitrogen fertilizer from run-off - carefully fertilizing your lawn will both save you money and encourage your viburnum to bloom once most of the nitrogen in the soil is used up. Another common cause for non-flowering viburnums is improper pruning. Viburnum shrubs are one of the many ornamental shrubs that blooms on old wood, so waiting until after blooming to prune is recommended. Trimming them during dormancy will result in the loss of all or many of the flower-producing buds. At the end of each bloom season, it's a good idea to give your viburnum a quick clip to encourage new growth and thin out the interior, removing any old canes that are no longer producing leaves. Now that you know some of the most common reasons for viburnums not blooming, you'll be better able to manage this problem in the future.

On average, viburnum shrubs need relatively little pruning. However, it never hurts to practice occasional viburnum pruning each year to maintain shape and overall beauty.

When to Prune Viburnum

While light pruning can be performed anytime throughout the year, it's best to leave any major shearing or severe pruning for late winter or early spring. Of course, much of viburnum pruning depends on the variety grown too. 

In many cases, pruning just after flowering but before the setting of seedpods is sufficient. If frost is imminent in your area, you should put off pruning so as not to damage new shoots.

How Much Can a Viburnum Shrub be Trimmed Back?

Typically, viburnum shrubs should be trimmed back about a third of their size each year. Most pruning is done for shaping purposes only. However, old or overgrown shrubs may require some rejuvenation. Thinning out of unsightly branches can help open these shrubs up as well.

How to Prune Viburnum

Pruning viburnums is not always necessary but when it is, you want to do it properly. Young shrubs can be pinched to help maintain shape, choosing the most attractive, upright stem and pinching side shoots as needed for appearance. 

Then you can begin maintaining your shrub annually by cutting it back just above the nodes so the plant can continue to put out new shoots. Oftentimes, taking up to a third of the shrub can achieve natural-looking results without harming the viburnum.

For overgrown shrubs, reshaping may take several years of pruning to correct. Cut these plants close to the ground, leaving sturdier stems in place and removing any thin ones.

With interesting foliage, attractive and fragrant flowers, showy berries, and numerous varieties to choose from, viburnum makes an exceptional addition to nearly any landscape.

What is Viburnum?

Viburnums are a group of large-flowering shrubs, with some varieties reaching up to 20 feet (6 m.). There are both evergreen and deciduous viburnum shrubs. Many have either white or pink blooms in early spring. Also commonly referred to as cranberry bush, viburnums are often used as ornamental fixtures in the home landscape. 

They are used in shrub borders or as hedges and screening. The larger varieties of viburnum shrub also make excellent focal points as specimen plantings.

Types of Viburnum Shrubs

There are several different types of viburnums. One of the more well-known species is the old-fashioned Snowball viburnum (V. opulus) with beautiful, white, snowball-shaped blooms. Notable viburnum types that are popular for their intoxicating fragrance include the Asian varieties, Cayuga and Burkwood. 

There are also viburnum shrubs that are commonly grown for their fall foliage or berries. Among the best foliage shrubs are Arrowwood and Linden arrowwood, both producing attractive purplish red leaves. The Tea viburnum is a deciduous species with blue-green foliage. Alleghany viburnum is dark green but occasionally turns purple in fall, remaining throughout winter. 

Types of viburnums with interesting berry color include those that change as they ripen from green to pink, yellow, or red to blue or black. For instance, Wayfaring tree and Blackhaw viburnums turn from red to black.

Planting Viburnum Flowering Shrub

When planting viburnum shrubs, pay attention to the individual needs of the particular species. Most viburnums prefer full sun but many will also tolerate partial shade. While not particularly picky about their growing conditions, they generally prefer fertile, well-draining soil. 

Planting viburnum takes place in spring or fall. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball but at least two to three times wider. Backfill with some of the soil and then add water to the planting hole before filling with the remaining dirt. 

When planting more than one viburnum shrub, space them anywhere from 5 to 15 feet (1.5-5 m.) apart, depending on their size at maturity and their use in the landscape.

How to Care for Viburnum

When it comes to viburnum care, water shrubs during dry periods. It will also help to add mulch to retain moisture. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer to viburnums as well but this isn't required. In addition, pruning the shrub should be included with viburnum care. This is normally done for shaping purposes and to remove dead, diseased, or broken branches from the viburnum shrub.