Viburnum

New Zealand’s Best Viburnum Plants

Growing colourful shrubs in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space
• They attract birds and bees
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come

We have the largest variety of Snowball bushes and the right one for your space. Our plants have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We grow and stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Viburnum, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Common questions about growing Viburnum

1. Which viburnum grows fastest?

The fastest-growing viburnum is the Viburnum odoratissimum, also known as the sweet viburnum. It can grow up to 4 meters tall and wide in just a few years. This viburnum is a popular choice for hedges and screens because of its fast growth rate and dense foliage.

Here are some other fast-growing viburnums:

• Viburnum opulus 'Roseum' (Snowball viburnum): This viburnum is known for its large, white flower balls. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and wide in 10 years.
• Viburnum lantana (Wayfaring tree): This viburnum is a large shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5 meters tall and wide in 10 years.
• Viburnum plicatum (Japanese snowball): This viburnum is known for its lacecap blooms. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and wide in 10 years.

The growth rate of viburnums can vary depending on the climate and soil conditions. Viburnums prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. If you plant your viburnum in the right spot, it will grow quickly and provide you with years of enjoyment.

Here are some tips for helping your viburnum grow faster:

• Plant in a sunny location: Viburnums need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow their best.
• Choose well-drained soil: Viburnums do not like to be in soggy soil. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
• Water regularly: Viburnums need about 1 inch of water per week, especially during hot, dry periods.
• Fertilize lightly: Viburnums do not need a lot of fertilizer. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring will suffice.
• Deadhead spent flowers: Deadheading will help your viburnum produce more flowers.
• Mulch around the base of the plant: Mulch will help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

By following these tips, you can help your viburnum grow faster and reach its full potential. Viburnums are beautiful and versatile plants that can add years of color and interest to your garden.

2. What are the best conditions for viburnum to grow?

Viburnums are a diverse group of shrubs and small trees that are known for their beautiful flowers, attractive berries, and adaptability to a variety of growing conditions. To ensure your viburnums thrive, it is essential to provide them with the optimal conditions for their growth and development. Here are the best conditions for viburnum to grow:

1. Sunlight: Viburnums generally prefer full sun to partial shade. However, some species, such as V. dentatum (arrowwood viburnum), can tolerate full shade. Adequate sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis and overall plant health, promoting abundant flowering and fruit production.
2. Soil: Viburnums prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture can lead to root rot, while overly alkaline soils can affect nutrient uptake. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve drainage and increase fertility.
3. Watering: Viburnums are moderately drought-tolerant once established, but they benefit from regular watering during hot, dry periods. Aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation. Avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soil can harm the roots.
4. Fertilizer: Viburnums do not require heavy doses of fertilizer, but rather a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can provide essential nutrients for optimal growth and flowering. Avoid over-feeding, as this can lead to excessive foliage production and reduced flowering.
5. Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the shape and size of viburnums, promotes healthy growth, and encourages continued flowering. Prune most viburnums after flowering, removing dead or diseased branches and thinning out overcrowded branches to allow for air circulation.
6. Pest and Disease Control: Viburnums are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Proper care, including maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering, can help prevent these problems.
7. Winter Care: In colder climates, some viburnum species may need protection from harsh winter conditions. Mulching around the base of the plant and covering it with a frost blanket can help protect the roots from freezing.

By providing these essential conditions, you can create a thriving environment for your viburnums, allowing them to flourish and bring years of beauty and enjoyment to your garden.

3. What is wrong with my viburnum?

There are many possible reasons why your viburnum might be looking unwell. Some of the most common causes include:

• Pests and diseases: Viburnums can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, such as aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and fungal leaf spots. Check your plant carefully for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate action if necessary.
• Watering issues: Overwatering or underwatering can both cause problems for viburnums. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow or brown.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Viburnums need a variety of nutrients to grow healthy and bloom profusely. If your plant is not getting enough nutrients, it may show signs of deficiency, such as stunted growth, yellowing leaves, or poor flowering.
• Improper soil conditions: Viburnums prefer well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. If the soil is too heavy or clay-like, it can retain too much moisture and cause root rot. If the soil is too alkaline, it can prevent the plant from absorbing nutrients properly.
• Sunlight issues: Viburnums generally prefer full sun to partial shade. If your plant is not getting enough sunlight, it may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
• Temperature extremes: If your plant is exposed to temperatures that are too cold or too hot, it may show signs of stress, such as wilting, leaf drop, or poor flowering.

4. How long does viburnum last?

Viburnum plants are generally considered long-lived shrubs that can provide years of beauty and enjoyment to your garden. Depending on the specific species and growing conditions, viburnums can have a lifespan of 15 to 50 years or even longer. Some viburnums, like Viburnum carlesii (Fragrant Viburnum), are known for their exceptional longevity, with some specimens reaching up to 100 years old.

5. Will Viburnum grow back?

Viburnum plants will typically grow back after being pruned or damaged. Viburnums are resilient shrubs that have a strong ability to recover from various setbacks. They have a well-developed root system that stores energy and nutrients, allowing them to regenerate and produce new growth.

The extent of regrowth depends on several factors, including the severity of the pruning or damage, the overall health of the plant, and the growing conditions. In most cases, viburnums can fully recover from pruning and produce new branches and foliage within the same growing season.

6. What is the strong smelling Viburnum?

The most fragrant viburnum is Viburnum x burkwoodii, also known as the Burkwoodii viburnum. It has a sweet, spicy fragrance that is often described as smelling like vanilla or honey. The fragrance is strongest in the spring when the plant is in bloom.

Here are some other fragrant viburnums:

• Viburnum carlesii (Fragrant viburnum): This viburnum has a strong, sweet fragrance that is similar to vanilla or clove.
• Viburnum odoratissimum (Sweet viburnum): This viburnum has a sweet, floral fragrance that is similar to honeysuckle.
• Viburnum plicatum (Japanese snowball viburnum): This viburnum has a light, sweet fragrance that is similar to rose or jasmine.
• Viburnum opulus (European guelder-rose): This viburnum has a light, sweet fragrance that is similar to honeysuckle.

The fragrance of viburnums is attractive to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. The flowers are also a source of food for birds.

7. What is the best Viburnum for privacy hedge?

Several Viburnum species make excellent privacy hedges, each with its own unique characteristics and suitability for different climates and conditions. Here are some of the top contenders:

1. Viburnum lantana (Wayfaring Tree): This versatile shrub tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, from acidic to alkaline, and thrives in sun or partial shade. Its dense foliage and fast growth rate make it an ideal choice for creating a quick-growing privacy screen.
2. Viburnum opulus (Guelder-Rose): A popular choice for its large, showy white flower clusters in spring and vibrant red berries in fall, Viburnum opulus also forms a dense hedge that can reach heights of 10 feet or more. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
3. Viburnum tinus (Laurustinus): An evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves, Viburnum tinus is a reliable choice for year-round privacy. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate partial shade or full sun.
4. Viburnum plicatum (Doublefile Viburnum): Known for its distinctive flat-topped clusters of white flowers in spring, Viburnum plicatum can grow to heights of 15 feet or more, making it a suitable option for taller privacy screens. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
5. Viburnum dentatum (Arrowwood Viburnum): A hardy shrub with attractive serrated leaves and clusters of white flowers in spring, Viburnum dentatum is adaptable to a range of soil conditions and tolerates partial shade or full sun.
6. Viburnum pragense (Prague Viburnum): This compact shrub with dense foliage and white flowers in spring is a good choice for smaller gardens or where space is limited. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

When selecting a Viburnum for a privacy hedge, consider factors such as the desired height, growth rate, flowering and fruiting characteristics, and adaptability to your local climate and soil conditions.

8. Where best to plant Viburnum?

Viburnums are versatile shrubs that can thrive in a variety of locations, but they generally prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Some species, such as Viburnum davidii, V. rhytidophyllum, and V. × bodnantense, can tolerate shadier positions.

Here are some specific planting guidelines for Viburnums:

• Light: Most viburnums prefer full sun, but some can tolerate partial shade. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial.
• Soil: Viburnums prefer fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.6 to 6.6. They can tolerate a range of soil types, but avoid planting them in heavy clay or sandy soil.
• Moisture: Viburnums need moist soil, but they don't like to be waterlogged. Water them regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Spacing: When planting multiple viburnums, space them according to their mature size. For example, Viburnum plicatum can grow up to 15 feet (5 m) tall, so space them at least 10 feet (3.5 m) apart.
• Drainage: Make sure the planting site has good drainage to prevent root rot.
• Wind protection: Protect young viburnums from strong winds, which can damage their leaves and stems.

9. Do you need two Viburnum?

Whether or not you need two Viburnum depends on the species you choose and your desired outcome. If you want to produce berries, you will need two compatible plants to cross-pollinate. However, if you are primarily interested in the flowers, you only need one plant.

Here is a more detailed explanation:

• Viburnum opulus (Guelder-Rose): This species is self-sterile, meaning that you need two plants to produce berries. The plants must also be of different cultivars in order to cross-pollinate.
• Viburnum plicatum (Doublefile Viburnum): This species is self-fertile, meaning that you only need one plant to produce berries.
• Viburnum dentatum (Arrowwood Viburnum): This species is self-fertile, but it will produce more berries if you have two plants.
• Viburnum lantana (Wayfaring Tree): This species is self-fertile, but it will produce more berries if you have two plants.