Contents
Description
Viburnum Opulus Compactum is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It is a compact variety of the European Cranberrybush Viburnum, which originated from central and northern Europe, including the British Isles. Viburnum Opulus Compactum is commonly known as the ‘European Cranberrybush’ because of its berries that resemble cranberries. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide and has a rounded shape. Its leaves are maple-like and dark green, turning to red in the fall. The flowers are white and bloom in late spring to early summer, followed by bright red berries in the fall, which can persist into winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Appearance
Viburnum Opulus Compactum has a dense, rounded shape with a maximum height and width of 6 feet. Its leaves are maple-like, dark green, and lobed, measuring about 5 inches long and 4 inches wide. In the fall, the leaves turn red. The flowers are white, flat-topped, and appear in clusters of 3 to 5. They bloom in late spring to early summer, measuring about 3 inches in diameter. The plant produces bright red berries that are oval-shaped and about 1/4 inch long, which ripen in the fall and can persist into winter. The bark of the Viburnum Opulus Compactum is gray-brown and has a slightly rough texture.
Care Guide
Viburnum Opulus Compactum is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for beginner gardeners. Here are some essential care tips:
- Water: Viburnum Opulus Compactum prefers consistent moisture but can tolerate short periods of drought once established. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once in the spring and again in early summer to encourage growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Amend the soil with organic matter like compost to improve soil structure and fertility.
- Sunlight: Viburnum Opulus Compactum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate full shade, but it may not flower as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viburnum Opulus Compactum is relatively pest and disease-free, but it may be susceptible to some common problems:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can damage the leaves and cause stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Scales: These insects appear as small, brown bumps on the stems and leaves. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use horticultural oil to control the infestation.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can cause leaf drop and weaken the plant. Use fungicides or neem oil to control the disease.
Habitat
Viburnum Opulus Compactum is native to central and northern Europe, including the British Isles. It grows well in temperate regions and can tolerate a wide range of soil types and moisture levels. The plant is commonly used as a garden plant, border shrub, or hedge.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Viburnum Opulus Compactum grow in full shade?
A: Yes, Viburnum Opulus Compactum can tolerate full shade, but it may not flower as well as it would in partial shade or full sun.
Q: When should I prune Viburnum Opulus Compactum?
A: Prune Viburnum Opulus Compactum in late winter or early spring while the plant is still dormant. Remove any dead or diseased wood, and shape the plant as desired.
Q: How often should I fertilize Viburnum Opulus Compactum?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once in the spring and again in early summer to encourage growth and flowering.
Q: Can Viburnum Opulus Compactum grow in containers?
A: Yes, Viburnum Opulus Compactum can be grown in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the roots, and use a well-draining potting mix. Water the plant regularly and fertilize it once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Viburnum Opulus
- Viburnum plicatum
- Viburnum trilobum
- Viburnum dentatum
- Viburnum carlesii
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Viburnum Opulus Compactum. Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/viburnum-opulus-compactum
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Viburnum Opulus Compactum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l220
