Growing the Native Witherod Viburnum (Viburnum cassinoides)
Attractive flowers, fruit and fall color of withered viburnum adds three seasons of interest to the landscape.
Native from Newfoundland to Manitoba and Minnesota south to Georgia,
it’s hardy in zones 3 to 8. The dense compact shrub grows 6 to 10 feet tall and wide.
Its puffy white flowers appear in late spring followed by fruit in midsummer through fall. The fruit changes from green to pink, then red to blue and eventually black. All the colors can appear on the fruit at once, creating a kaleidoscope of color. In fall, the green leaves turn orange-red, crimson and purple.
Grow it in full sun to partial shade. It prefers moist loamy soils but tolerates a wide range of soil conditions. Plant in groups for better pollination and to maximize the fruit display.
Be aware it is moderately susceptible to viburnum leaf beetle.
A bit more information: Use it in shrub borders, natural areas and for mass plantings. Several varieties are available. Lil’ Ditty is only 12 to 24 inches, making it perfect for small space gardens and containers.
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