Viburnum Carlcephalum – 5 Litre

5 Litre Pot

• RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Position: Full sun, full shade, partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well drained
• Growth Rate: Average
• Flowering Period: Spring – Summer
• Hardiness: H6
• Eventual Height: 1.5 – 2.5m
• Eventual Spread: 1.5 – 2.5m

Viburnum Carlcephalum, commonly known as the ‘Fragrant Snowball’, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Viburnaceae family.

It can grow up to 2.5 metres tall and wide, and has an upright, rounded habit. The leaves are ovate to oblong and are dark green in colour. In Autumn, the leaves turn shades of red and purple, adding interest to the landscape.

One of the most striking features of this Viburnum is its large, spherical flower clusters.  These  are composed of tiny white or pinkish-white flowers that have a sweet, spicy fragrance, similar to that of cloves or cinnamon. The flowers bloom in late Spring to early Summer, and are followed by red to black berries that attract birds.

This is a hardy plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is also tolerant of a wide range of soil types and pH levels. The shrub is relatively low maintenance and does not require regular pruning, although it can be trimmed to maintain its shape.

In the garden, this species is often used as a specimen plant, a hedge, or a border plant. Its large, fragrant flowers make it a popular choice for cut flower arrangements, and the berries provide a food source for wildlife. The plant is also deer-resistant, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.

Overall, this is a beautiful and versatile shrub that provides interest in the garden throughout the growing season. Its fragrant flowers, attractive foliage, and wildlife benefits make it a popular choice among gardeners.

How to care for your Viburnum Carlcephalum

• Watering: Prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more often during periods of hot, dry weather.
• Fertilising: The shrub does not require a lot of fertilisation, but it can benefit from a light feeding of a balanced fertiliser in early Spring before new growth appears.
• Pruning: Does not require regular pruning, but you can remove any dead or diseased wood and shape the shrub in early Spring before new growth appears. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce the number of flowers.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade, although it can tolerate some shade. Too much shade can reduce the number of flowers.
• Soil: The shrub prefers moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH.

By following these care tips, you can help your Viburnum Carlcephalum thrive and produce its beautiful, fragrant flowers for years to come.