October 6, 1997
Viburnums are dependable and interesting in all seasons of the year. If you select the right species you can have a wealth of fragrant white flowers in the spring, glossy green leaves during the summer, attractive autumn foliage and bright-colored fruits in late summer and fall. Viburnums are sturdy shrubs, easy to grow and most are hardy throughout Virginia. Viburnums are virtually pest free, except for attacks by aphids.
Viburnums Are Versatile
Viburnums can be used as specimen shrubs or small trees or in border plantings as they range from small to very large. Choose those that fit your space limitations. If properly located, the shrub should need only moderate pruning to retain a desirable form.
Viburnums can be used to attract wildlife such as birds and small mammals because of the abundance of fruit produced on each bush. Plant in well drained, fertile soil with a mulch of wood chips or other organic material extending several feet from the base to conserve soil moisture and help suppress weed growth.
The Doublefile viburnum (V. plicatum tomentosum) is undoubtedly the most spectacular of the family. In mid-May, large white flowers are produced in flat clusters, along horizontal branches somewhat like a dogwood. It grows eight feet tall with a slightly larger spread. In the fall the foliage changes to a bright red and is accompanied by attractive red fruit which gradually turn black.
The Koreanspice viburnum (V. carlesii) is a favorite because of its fragrant spring flowers. The white flowers emerge in late April to early May followed by red to black fruit from August to September. This dense shrub is usually rounded with stiff, upright spreading branches. It normally reaches a height of four to five feet with an equal or greater spread.
The Blackhaw Grows Tall
For a large tree-like viburnum to use as a specimen, select the Blackhaw (V. prunifolium). It grows 15 feet tall and has attractive white flower clusters in mid May. In the fall, shiny red leaves contrast with blue-black fruit.
Low-growing forms of viburnums include the compact European Cranberrybush (V. opulus 'Compactum'), which grows only five feet tall with good flower and fruit production even when young. A dwarf cultivar, (V. opulus 'Nanum'), seldom exceeds two feet and does not produce flowers or fruit. These low species are useful as hedge plants.
There are many more varieties of viburnum. Visit a nursery or arboretum to find out about the viburnums that will perform well in your area.
More gardening information is available in the Virginia Gardener Newsletter.
Visit Virginia Cooperative Extension