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Description
Viburnum Lantanoides, also known as hobblebush, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern parts of North America. It is a member of the honeysuckle family and is commonly found in moist, wooded areas. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide and has a spreading habit. It blooms in the spring with large clusters of white flowers that can be up to 6 inches in diameter. The flowers are followed by red berries that are a favorite food for birds and other wildlife. The leaves of the Viburnum Lantanoides are large and broad, measuring up to 8 inches long and 6 inches wide. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful reddish-purple color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Viburnum |
Appearance
The Viburnum Lantanoides has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other shrubs. Its large, broad leaves give it a tropical look, while its white flowers and red berries add color to any landscape. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide, making it a great choice for a natural hedge or screen. The flowers of the Viburnum Lantanoides are large, measuring up to 6 inches in diameter. They bloom in the spring and are followed by red berries that attract birds and other wildlife. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful reddish-purple color, adding even more color to the landscape.
Care Guide
The Viburnum Lantanoides is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: The Viburnum Lantanoides prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water your plant regularly, especially during hot, dry periods.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Viburnum Lantanoides in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can promote new growth that may be damaged by winter cold.
- Soil: The Viburnum Lantanoides prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but avoid planting in heavy clay or poorly drained soil.
- Sunlight: The Viburnum Lantanoides prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun, but avoid planting in areas that receive hot, direct afternoon sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The Viburnum Lantanoides is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Viburnum Lantanoides is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Scale insects: These insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be controlled with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can be controlled with fungicides or by removing infected leaves.
Habitat
The Viburnum Lantanoides is native to the eastern parts of North America and is commonly found in moist, wooded areas. It prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. The plant is popular among gardeners and landscapers for its unique appearance and low-maintenance nature.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Viburnum Lantanoides be grown in a container?
A: While it is possible to grow the Viburnum Lantanoides in a container, it may not thrive as well as it would in the ground. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide, so it will require a large container to accommodate its size.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Viburnum Lantanoides?
A: Fertilize your Viburnum Lantanoides in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can promote new growth that may be damaged by winter cold.
Q: Is the Viburnum Lantanoides deer-resistant?
A: While no plant is completely deer-resistant, the Viburnum Lantanoides is somewhat deer-resistant. Deer may browse on the leaves and flowers, but they typically avoid the plant.
Q: Can the Viburnum Lantanoides be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Viburnum Lantanoides can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the summer. Root the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them in a warm, humid environment until they have rooted.
Related Plants
- Viburnum opulus (European cranberrybush)
- Viburnum dentatum (arrowwood viburnum)
- Viburnum trilobum (American cranberrybush)
- Viburnum plicatum (Japanese snowball viburnum)
References
- “Viburnum Lantanoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c200.
- “Viburnum Lantanoides.” Plant Database. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/viburnum-lantanoides/.
- “Hobblebush (Viburnum Lantanoides).” Ontario Trees and Shrubs. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.ontariotrees.com/main/species.php?id=1483.
