2-3 Litre Pot
- RHS: Award of Garden Merit
- Position: Full sun / partial shade
- Soil: Moist, well drained
- Flowering Period: May – June
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Hardiness: H6
- Eventual Height: 2.5 – 4m
- Eventual Spread: 2.5 – 4m
Viburnum Opulus Sterile, commonly known as the “Snowball Tree” and a holder of the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit, is a deciduous shrub native to Europe and northern Asia. It is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its ornamental value due to its large, showy, and globular clusters of sterile flowers that resemble snowballs, hence the name.
The shrub typically grows to a height and spread of 4 metres. Its leaves are dark green, lobed, and opposite, measuring about 8cm in length. In the Autumn, the foliage turns shades of red and purple, adding further aesthetic appeal to the plant.
The flowers of this Viburnum are its most striking feature. The clusters are composed entirely of sterile, petal-like flowers that lack reproductive structures. These flowers are typically pure white, although some cultivars may have shades of pink or green.
The flowers typically appear in late Spring to early Summer and last for several weeks. As the flowers fade, they may give way to small red fruits that mature in the Autumn. These fruits are edible but not particularly flavourful, and are mostly used for making jellies and preserves.
This is a hardy plant that is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers moist, well-draining soil but can tolerate a variety of soil types. It also tolerates full sun to partial shade, making it a versatile choice for landscaping.
Overall, Viburnum Opulus Sterile is a beautiful and versatile shrub that can add aesthetic appeal and medicinal value to any garden or landscape.
How to care for your Viburnum Opulus Sterile
- Soil: This shrub prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
- Water: Prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought once established. Water deeply and regularly during the growing season, particularly during hot and dry periods.
- Fertiliser: Fertilise the shrub with a balanced fertiliser in early Spring, just before new growth appears.
- Pruning: Prune after flowering, typically in late Spring or early Summer. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood, and cut back any overgrown or straggly branches. This will help maintain a healthy and attractive shape.
- Winter Protection: In areas with harsh Winters, protect the shrub from Winter damage by mulching around the base of the plant with a layer of organic material, such as leaves or straw.
- Propagation: Can be propagated through softwood cuttings taken in the summer or hardwood cuttings taken in the Winter. Alternatively, it can be propagated by layering or by dividing established clumps.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Viburnum Opulus Sterile remains healthy and vibrant, providing years of beauty and enjoyment in your garden or landscape.
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