Viburnum Odoratissimum

Viburnum odoratissimum

Viburnum Odoratissimum is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can reach up to twenty feet tall and fifteen feet wide. It’s glossy, bright green leaves are arranged in opposite directions on green stems in such a way that it gives the impression of being quite robust and dense. Fragrant, white flowers appear in spring and cover the plant. Then in the fall, Viburnum Odoratissimum will sprout moderately showy, small red berries that turn black when ripe. Mature Viburnums are more likely to fruit.

Preferred exposure for Viburnum Odoratissimum is full sun but it will also grow in partial shade. It tolerates many different soils as long as they are well drained. It is also drought tolerant once established in the landscape. Viburnum is not a good fit for coastal properties due to its low salt tolerance.

A very gratifying shrub to use as a hedge, Viburnum Odoratissimum works great because of its fast rate of growth and the sweet springtime fragrance. It is versatile and rarely bothered by pests or disease. Although mostly used for hedges, Viburnum Odoratissimum can also be planted alone as a specimen tree; if left alone it will become an attractive tree that looks great for small or formal settings.

Ornamental Characteristics:

Native Origin:
Asia

Common Names:
Sweet Viburnum, V.O

Description:
Hardy Range:  8 – 10
Mature Height: up to 20’
Mature Spread: up to 15’
Growth Rate: moderate
Growth Habit: round

Ornamental Characteristics:
Viburnum odoratissimum has large, leathery, dark green glossy leaves. The leaves are about six inches long and form a moderately coarse texture. In the spring, clusters of extremely fragrant, small, white flowers cover the plant. The flowers are often followed by moderately showy small, red berries which turn black when ripe. It grows best in full sun and also grows in partial shade.

Environment:
Soil: clay; sand; loam; alkaline; acidic; well-drained
Salt: low
Exposure: full sun, partial sun or partial shade