Viburnum davidii

RHS Plant Profile
David viburnum
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Shrubs

A small spreading evergreen shrub, with elliptic, deep green, leathery, three-veined leaves and flattened heads of small dull white flowers followed on cross-pollinated plants by long-lasting 'metallic' blue-black berries

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Viburnaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamentalnot to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Viburnum can be deciduous or evergreen shrubs with opposite, simple or palmately lobed leaves and clusters of small, often fragrant white or pink flowers, followed by red, blue or black berries
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
W China

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in most moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soils. Though not strictly dioecious, plants in this species can be dominantly female or male, with only the former consistently producing berries. Specifically sexed clones are available, or plant in groups to ensure cross-pollination and berry production

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Low Maintenance
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Ground cover

Pruning

Pruning group 8 (evergreens)

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids and viburnum beetle

Diseases

May be susceptible to Phytophthora, honey fungus, grey moulds and leaf spot