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Description
Viburnum Davidii is a small, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It is native to China and was named after the famous French missionary and botanist, Armand David. This plant is known for its glossy, dark-green foliage that has a leathery texture. It produces small white flowers in the spring, which are followed by metallic blue berries in the summer. Viburnum Davidii is a popular choice for gardens due to its attractive appearance and easy-to-care nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Appearance
Viburnum Davidii is a low-growing shrub that can reach a height of 3-4 feet and a width of 4-5 feet. Its leaves are opposite, leathery, and glossy, with a dark-green color that turns purple in the winter. The plant produces small, fragrant, white flowers in the spring, which are followed by small metallic blue berries in the summer. The berries are a favorite of birds, which helps in spreading the plant.
Care Guide
Viburnum Davidii is easy to care for and requires little maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
Water: This plant prefers moist soil but does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers and berries.
Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil.
Sunlight: Viburnum Davidii prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun or full shade. Avoid planting it in areas that receive intense afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Viburnum Davidii is susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some of the common ones:
Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and scale insects can infest this plant. Regular inspection and treatment with an insecticidal soap or oil can help control these pests.
Diseases: Powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot can affect this plant. Proper watering, good air circulation, and regular pruning can help prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Viburnum Davidii is native to China and grows in forests, thickets, and rocky areas. In its natural habitat, it grows in acidic soil and prefers partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q. Can Viburnum Davidii tolerate full sun?
A. Yes, Viburnum Davidii can tolerate full sun but prefers partial shade.
Q. How often should I water Viburnum Davidii?
A. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering. The frequency of watering will depend on the soil type and weather conditions.
Q. When should I fertilize Viburnum Davidii?
A. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q. How tall and wide does Viburnum Davidii grow?
A. Viburnum Davidii can reach a height of 3-4 feet and a width of 4-5 feet.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to Viburnum Davidii:
- Viburnum tinus
- Viburnum opulus
- Viburnum plicatum
- Viburnum carlesii
- Viburnum lantana
References
- “Viburnum Davidii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277797.
- “Viburnum Davidii.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/22263/Viburnum-davidii/Details.
- “Viburnum.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/viburnum.
