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iNaturalist
Viburnum Plant Care
Viburnum opulus L.
This plant's distinctive feature is its three-lobed, maple-like leaves. Originating from Europe and North America, Viburnum opulus is highly sought after by plant collectors for its beautiful clusters of white flowers and bright red berries that adorn its branches, adding a pop of color to any garden.
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to part shade
0–100°F
40–70%
What Is the Viburnum?
Viburnum (Viburnum opulus) belongs to the Viburnaceae family within the Viburnum genus. Viburnum is also known as Guelder Rose, European Cranberrybush, Snowball Bush.
Viburnum displays an upright, spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 10 inches tall with a spread of approximately 8 inches. Viburnum produces clusters of small, fragrant white or pink flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Viburnum?
Viburnum opulus requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Viburnum Need?
Viburnum thrives in full sun to part shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Viburnum in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to part shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Viburnum Prefer?
Viburnum opulus grows best at temperatures between 0°F and 100°F. Viburnum prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
0–100°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Viburnum?
Moist, well-draining loamy soil enriched with organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Viburnum to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Viburnum?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Viburnum?
Viburnum can be propagated through softwood cuttings, semi-hardwood cuttings, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to arrowwood viburnum plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Viburnum Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Viburnum?
Viburnum is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, viburnum beetles. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Viburnum Need?
Viburnum grows outdoors in USDA Zone 3a – 8b. In cooler regions, grow Viburnum as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 3a – 8b
Keep exploring plants
Viburnum is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Viburnum genus — compare its care with other Viburnum species on PlantoScan.
Viburnum tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Viburnum Species
Other Viburnum species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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