Viburnum Tinus
Contents
Description
Viburnum Tinus, also known as Laurustinus or laurustinus viburnum, is an evergreen shrub that is native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the Adoxaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful white and pink flowers that bloom in winter and early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Appearance
Viburnum Tinus can reach up to 3 meters in height and width, with an upright growth habit. Its leaves are ovate, glossy, and dark green, measuring up to 10 centimeters long. The plant produces clusters of small, fragrant white or pink flowers that bloom in winter and early spring, followed by metallic blue-black fruits.
Care Guide
Viburnum Tinus is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep it healthy and thriving:
- Water: Viburnum Tinus prefers moist, well-drained soil. Make sure to water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and again in summer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: Viburnum Tinus grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Viburnum Tinus is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viburnum Tinus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids, scale insects, and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot can also occur, especially in humid conditions or poorly drained soil. To prevent these diseases, make sure to provide good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Viburnum Tinus is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in rocky and wooded areas. It is also commonly cultivated in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Viburnum Tinus tolerate drought?
A: No, Viburnum Tinus prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well.
Q: How often should I fertilize Viburnum Tinus?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and again in summer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: What is the best time to prune Viburnum Tinus?
A: Prune Viburnum Tinus after flowering, in late spring or early summer.
Q: How tall can Viburnum Tinus grow?
A: Viburnum Tinus can reach up to 3 meters in height and width.
Related Plants
- Viburnum Opulus (Guelder Rose)
- Viburnum Plicatum (Japanese Snowball)
- Viburnum Carlesii (Koreanspice Viburnum)
- Viburnum Dentatum (Arrowwood Viburnum)
References
- “Viburnum tinus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c427
- “Viburnum tinus.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12815/i-viburnum-tinus-i/details
- “Viburnum tinus.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP51400.pdf
