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Description
Viburnum Utile, also known as the ‘Service Viburnum’, is a deciduous shrub native to the eastern United States. It belongs to the Adoxaceae family, and is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and showy flowers.This plant grows up to 6-10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide, making it a perfect choice for hedges or screens. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate in shape, measuring 2-4 inches long. Viburnum Utile blooms in late spring to early summer, producing clusters of white, fragrant flowers that are followed by red fruit in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Appearance
Viburnum Utile is a dense, multi-stemmed shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate in shape, with serrated edges. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful reddish-purple color.The plant produces clusters of white, fragrant flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by red fruit that matures in the fall and attracts birds. The bark of Viburnum Utile is brown and smooth, and the plant has a rounded, compact shape.
Care Guide
To ensure the healthy growth of Viburnum Utile, follow these care guidelines:Water: Water regularly during the first year of growth to establish a strong root system. After that, the plant can tolerate periods of drought. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to weak growth and susceptibility to pests and diseases.Soil: Viburnum Utile prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost to improve drainage.Sunlight: Plant Viburnum Utile in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.Hardiness Zones: Viburnum Utile is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viburnum Utile is generally free of pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to the following:Scale Insects: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and a sticky residue on the plant. Treat with insecticidal soap.Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and canker sores on the branches. Remove infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Viburnum Utile is native to the eastern United States, where it grows in woodlands, thickets, and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-draining soils and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Viburnum Utile be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Viburnum Utile can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.Q: How often should I prune Viburnum Utile?
A: Prune Viburnum Utile in the late winter to early spring to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can also shape the plant at this time.Q: Can Viburnum Utile be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Viburnum Utile can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the summer or fall.Q: How can I attract birds to my Viburnum Utile?
A: The red fruit of Viburnum Utile is attractive to birds, so leave the fruit on the plant until they have eaten it all.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Viburnum Utile:- Viburnum Opulus- Viburnum Tinus- Viburnum Lentago- Viburnum Carlesii- Viburnum Plicatum
References
– “Viburnum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b430. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021.- “Viburnum Utile.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/plant/870. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021.- “Viburnum Utile.” Plant Finder, www.gardenia.net/plant/viburnum-utile-service-viburnum. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021.
