

How to identify Chinese viburnum (Viburnum propinquum)
Chinese viburnum is distinguished by its glossy, leathery foliage and a robust, rounded growth pattern spanning 4-8 feet (1.2-2.4 meters) in both height and width. Its foliage presents a striking burgundy transformation in the autumn and winter months. This evergreen shrub flourishes with subtly eye-catching clusters of greenish-white blooms, later developing into blue-black fruits that are known to be appetizing to local songbirds.
Glossy, leathery elliptic leaves turn burgundy in autumn.
Shiny red-brown stem with prominent lenticels ages to gray.
Greenish white flowers in 2-3 inch wide umbel-like clusters.
Glossy, egg-shaped drupes transition to deep blue-black in autumn.
Robust, rounded plant grows 4-8 feet in height and width.
Chinese viburnum features deep green, leathery, and glossy leaves that are elliptic to oblanceolate in shape. Measuring 2-3.5 inches (5-9 cm) in length and 0.75-1.25 inches (2-3 cm) in width, these leaves have a wedge-shaped or rounded base and pointed tips. They are shallowly and sparsely toothed with a distinct 3-veined pattern. During fall and winter, the leaves turn a striking burgundy color.
Chinese viburnum flowers are greenish white and appear in late spring. They are arranged in umbel-like cymes that are 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) wide. These clusters showcase small, numerous blooms, each with multiple delicate petals forming a dense cluster. While specific details about scent are not mentioned, the visually distinctive flower arrangement and color make it identifiable during its blooming period. These flowers provide a subtle yet charming visual in floral arrangements and garden settings.
The stem of chinese viburnum is initially a shiny red-brown with prominent lenticels, giving it a distinct appearance. In its second year, the stem transitions to a gray color. The texture is initially smooth, later becoming slightly rough as it ages. Typically, stems are moderately thick, ranging from 0.2 to 0.5 inches (0.5 to 1.3 cm) in diameter. Branching tends to be frequent, often creating a dense framework. These features are key for identifying this plant.
The fruit of chinese viburnum is characterized by glossy, egg-shaped drupes, which are a type of fleshy fruit with a single hard stone enclosing the seed. Initially, these drupes showcase a vibrant color transition as the seasons change, maturing to a deep blue-black hue in the autumn. The lustrous fruits are notably persistent, often remaining attached to the plant into the winter months. Each drupe is modest in size, appealing to various wildlife, which rely on them as a food source during the colder seasons.
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Scientific Classification of Chinese viburnum