How to identify Japanese snowball (Viburnum plicatum)
Japanese snowball, also known as Doublefile viburnum
Japanese snowball presents as an eye-catching, voluminous shrub, reaching heights of up to 10 feet (3 meters) with an equivalent spread. This plant features layered branches with distinctly pleated, dark green leaves that create a textured appearance. Come spring, these branches spectacularly give way to abundant, globular flower clusters approximately 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) in diameter, comprised of numerous small, ivory blossoms that resemble miniature snowballs. The blossoms stand out against the foliage, making japanese snowball a striking addition to any garden.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Shrub
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Pleated dark green leaves give a textured appearance, measuring 1.5-4 inches (4-10 cm) in length.
Flowers form white corymbs, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) across, with flat-topped, lace-like arrangement.
Egg-shaped red fruit cluster in drupes, each around 0.33 inches (8 mm) in diameter.
Multi-stemmed, sturdy stems are thick, 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) in diameter, creating tiered branching.
Distinctively pleated trunk bark, smooth yet firm, varies in color, reaching up to 4 inches (10 cm) diameter.
The dark green leaves of japanese snowball are oval to elliptical and measure around 1.5-4 inches (4-10 cm) in length. They have a pleated upper surface with a deeply veined pattern, giving a textured appearance. The veins are prominently sunken into the surface, creating a ridged effect. The leaf margins are serrated and the overall texture is slightly rough. These leaves serve as a distinguishing feature with their rich color and unique pleating.
The flowers of japanese snowball are typically white and form in clusters known as corymbs, measuring about 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) across. Each flower is around 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) in diameter. Depending on the variety, the flowers can be either showy or non-showy and may have a mild fragrance. Blooms appear in mid to late spring, making them a notable feature during this period. The petal arrangement is usually flat-topped with a profuse, lace-like appearance.
The stem of japanese snowball is multi-stemmed and notably sturdy. It features a textured surface that ranges from smooth to slightly rough, with a color varying from light brown to grayish-brown. The stems are relatively thick, typically measuring 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) in diameter. Branching occurs at various levels, creating a tiered appearance. The multi-stemmed nature of japanese snowball often results in an intricate branching pattern, making this feature distinctive for identification.
The fruit of japanese snowball is characterized by an egg-shaped, fleshy structure. Exhibiting a smooth texture, the fruit typically matures to a strikingly vibrant red hue, adding a touch of visual interest. Each fruit measures around 0.33 inches (8 mm) in diameter, presenting a somewhat glossy appearance. These drupes commonly occur in clusters and persist into the winter months, providing a persistent ornamental appeal. Notable for their broad appeal to various bird species, the fruits serve as a valuable food source in the ecosystem.
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Scientific Classification of Japanese snowball
