Viburnum sieboldii 'Seneca'

RHS Plant Profile
Siebold viburnum 'Seneca'
Shrubs Trees

A vigorous deciduous shrub or small tree to 6m high, with stiff, structural branches and ovate, glossy dark green leaves with impressed veins and toothed edges. Leaves can give off an unpleasant smell when crushed. In late spring and early summer, large domed clusters of small, white flowers are produced, followed by persistent pinkish-red berries that turn black as they mature

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Viburnaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
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
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or by grafting in late summer or winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Minimal pruning required, if necessary prune immediately after flowering, though this will prevent development of berries

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids and viburnum beetle

Diseases

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