Viburnum Opulus

Description

Viburnum Opulus, commonly known as Guelder rose, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the honeysuckle family Caprifoliaceae. It is native to Europe, Northern Africa, and Asia. This plant can grow up to 4 meters tall and 3 meters wide. It has a rounded or flat-topped shape, with a spreading habit, and a dense crown of green leaves. The flowers of Viburnum Opulus are white, flat-topped, and arranged in clusters. They bloom in late spring to early summer, followed by bright red, translucent berries that stay on the plant until late fall.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Dipsacales
Family	Caprifoliaceae
Genus	Viburnum

Appearance

Viburnum Opulus has a dense crown of green leaves that are opposite, lobed, and toothed. The leaves can grow up to 10 cm long and 8 cm wide. In autumn, the leaves turn reddish-purple, adding an attractive color to the landscape. The flowers of Viburnum Opulus are white, flat-topped, and arranged in clusters that can grow up to 15 cm wide. They bloom in late spring to early summer, and their fragrance attracts bees and butterflies. The berries of Viburnum Opulus are bright red, translucent, and grow up to 1 cm in diameter. They stay on the plant until late fall, providing food for birds and wildlife.

Care Guide

To ensure the healthy growth of Viburnum Opulus, you should follow these care guidelines:Water: Viburnum Opulus prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during its growing season, especially during dry spells.Fertilization: Viburnum Opulus doesn’t require much fertilization. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.Soil: Viburnum Opulus prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting the shrub in heavy clay soils or soils that are too alkaline.Sunlight: Viburnum Opulus prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it won’t bloom as well.Hardiness Zones: Viburnum Opulus is hardy to USDA zones 3 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Viburnum Opulus is generally a healthy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by:Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves of Viburnum Opulus, causing them to curl and distort. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. You can control spider mites by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves of Viburnum Opulus. It can be controlled by removing infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.

Habitat

Viburnum Opulus is native to Europe, Northern Africa, and Asia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and stream banks. In gardens and landscapes, Viburnum Opulus is often used as a specimen plant, a hedge, or in mixed borders.

Question and Answer

Q: When should I prune Viburnum Opulus?
A: You can prune Viburnum Opulus in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.Q: Can I grow Viburnum Opulus in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Viburnum Opulus in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: Can Viburnum Opulus grow in shade?
A: Viburnum Opulus can grow in partial shade, but it won’t bloom as well as it would in full sun.Q: How often should I water Viburnum Opulus?
A: Water Viburnum Opulus regularly during its growing season, especially during dry spells. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Related Plants

Other plants in the Viburnum genus include:

• Viburnum tinus
• Viburnum plicatum
• Viburnum carlesii
• Viburnum trilobum

References

• RHS (2021) Viburnum opulus. Available at: https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/6415/viburnum-opulus/details (Accessed: 3 October 2021).
• Missouri Botanical Garden (2021) Viburnum opulus. Available at: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d360 (Accessed: 3 October 2021).
• Gardenia (2021) Viburnum opulus (European Cranberrybush). Available at: https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/viburnum-opulus-european-cranberrybush (Accessed: 3 October 2021).