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Description
Viburnum Burkwoodii Anne Russell, commonly known as Anne Russell viburnum, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It is a hybrid variety, which was developed in the 1920s by crossing Viburnum carlesii and Viburnum utile. This plant is widely cultivated for its fragrant flowers, which bloom in late spring, and its glossy leaves, which turn purplish-red in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Appearance
The Anne Russell viburnum can grow up to 8 feet tall and wide. It has a dense, rounded growth habit and multi-stemmed branches. The leaves are dark green and glossy, measuring 2 to 4 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide. In the fall, the leaves turn a reddish-purple color. The flowers are pinkish-white, fragrant, and arranged in clusters measuring 2 to 4 inches wide. The fruit is a small, red, egg-shaped drupe that matures in the fall.
Care Guide
The Anne Russell viburnum prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It can tolerate partial shade, but it blooms best in full sun. This plant requires regular watering, especially during the first year of growth. It is recommended to fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. The Anne Russell viburnum is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Anne Russell viburnum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be prone to aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled through the use of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. This plant can also be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and canker. Proper sanitation and pruning can help prevent these diseases.
Habitat
The Anne Russell viburnum is native to Asia, specifically China and Japan. It is widely cultivated in North America, Europe, and Asia as an ornamental plant. This plant is commonly used in hedges, borders, and as a specimen plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Anne Russell viburnum?
A: Water your plant regularly, especially during the first year of growth. Monitor the soil moisture and water when it feels dry to the touch.
Q: When is the best time to prune my Anne Russell viburnum?
A: Prune your plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased wood and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Does the Anne Russell viburnum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the flowers and fruit of this plant can attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Can I grow the Anne Russell viburnum in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-drained soil and receives adequate sunlight.
Related Plants
- Viburnum carlesii
- Viburnum plicatum
- Viburnum trilobum
- Viburnum opulus
References
- “Viburnum burkwoodii ‘Anne Russell’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=i110.
- “Viburnum burkwoodii.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/viburnum-burkwoodii.
- “Viburnum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/search-results?form-mode=true&context=l%3Den%26q%3Dviburnum%26sl%3DplantForm.
