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Description
Viburnum Wrightii, also known as Wright’s viburnum, is a deciduous shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a member of the Adoxaceae family and can grow up to 12 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The plant features dark green leaves that turn reddish-purple in the fall, and fragrant white flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers are followed by red to black berries that attract birds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Viburnum |
Appearance
Viburnum Wrightii has a dense, rounded growth habit and can grow up to 12 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate, measuring up to 5 inches long and 3 inches wide. In the fall, the leaves turn reddish-purple. The plant produces clusters of small, fragrant white flowers that bloom in the spring, followed by red to black berries that ripen in the fall. The berries are a valuable food source for birds.
Care Guide
Viburnum Wrightii is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Viburnum Wrightii:
- Water: Viburnum Wrightii prefers well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Soil: Viburnum Wrightii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
- Sunlight: Viburnum Wrightii prefers full sun to light shade. Plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Viburnum Wrightii is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Viburnum Wrightii is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Scale insects: These small, flat insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunting. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can also suck the sap from the plant. Treat with insecticidal soap or a strong spray of water.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Viburnum Wrightii is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky hillsides, canyons, and streambanks. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, thanks to its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and berries that attract birds.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Viburnum Wrightii?
A: Water deeply once a week during the growing season, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Q: Can Viburnum Wrightii grow in shade?
A: Viburnum Wrightii prefers full sun to light shade, but it can tolerate some shade.
Q: How tall does Viburnum Wrightii grow?
A: Viburnum Wrightii can grow up to 12 feet tall and 10 feet wide.
Q: When should I fertilize my Viburnum Wrightii?
A: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Related Plants
- Viburnum dentatum (arrowwood viburnum)
- Viburnum lantana (wayfaringtree viburnum)
- Viburnum opulus (European cranberrybush viburnum)
- Viburnum prunifolium (blackhaw viburnum)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Viburnums: Flowering Shrubs for Every Season. Timber Press.
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Viburnum wrightii. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp618
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Viburnum Wrightii. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=VIWR
