Contents
Description
The Laser Trilobum, also known as Viburnum opulus ‘Roseum’, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but is now widely cultivated in North America as an ornamental plant. The plant grows up to 10 feet tall and has a spread of 10 feet. It features large, three-lobed, maple-like leaves that turn red in the fall. The plant also produces white flowers in spring that resemble snowballs, hence its common name of Snowball Bush. The flowers are followed by red berries that attract birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicotyledons |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Appearance
The Laser Trilobum is a large shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and has a spread of 10 feet. It has large, three-lobed, maple-like leaves that turn red in the fall. The plant produces white flowers in spring that resemble snowballs, hence its common name of Snowball Bush. The flowers are followed by red berries that attract birds. The plant’s bark is gray and smooth, and it has a rounded, dense habit.
Care Guide
The Laser Trilobum is an easy-to-care-for plant that prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. Here are some care tips for the Laser Trilobum:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The Laser Trilobum prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Laser Trilobum is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Laser Trilobum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, water the plant at the base and provide good air circulation.
- Aphids: These are small, green insects that can suck the sap from the plant’s leaves. To control aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Laser Trilobum is native to Europe and Asia but is now widely cultivated in North America as an ornamental plant. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Laser Trilobum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Laser Trilobum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: When is the best time to prune the Laser Trilobum?
A: The best time to prune the Laser Trilobum is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Laser Trilobum?
A: Fertilize the Laser Trilobum once a year in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Does the Laser Trilobum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant’s red berries attract birds.
Related Plants
- Viburnum plicatum ‘Mariesii’
- Viburnum opulus ‘Compactum’
- Viburnum trilobum
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Viburnum opulus ‘Roseum’. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c172
- University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Viburnum opulus ‘Roseum’. Retrieved from https://web.extension.illinois.edu/hortanswers/plantdetail.cfm?PlantID=138&PlantTypeID=8
