Hobble-Bush (Viburnum lantanoides)

Hobble-Bush

Also known as: Alder-Leaved Viburnum, American Wayfaring Tree

Hobble-Bush (Viburnum lantanoides) is a native deciduous shrub that will grow from 91 to 183 cm tall. The name hobblebush comes from its long branches which have been known to trip people and hobble them. It blooms in spring with clusters of fragrant white flowers. Edible red berries appear in summer and ripen to deep purple in fall. Leaves change from bronze-red to purple in fall.

Scientific classification

Species

Hobble-Bush (Viburnum lantanoides)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

2 m to 4 m

Plant Height

2.5 m to 3 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Red, Purple

Leaf Color

3 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Blue, Burgundy

Fruit Color

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Hobble-Bush

Attributes of Hobble-Bush

Growth Rate

Hobble-Bush's slow growth pace manifests primarily in spring and summer. During these seasons, it tenderly advances, gradually modulating leaf production and size increase. The unhurried pace results in a dense, lush understory shrub, exhibiting its unique coat of foliage. Variations in growth rate are minimal, with spring and summer remaining the primary periods of expansion.

Distribution of Hobble-Bush

Distribution Map

Hobble-Bush is a shrub native to the cool temperate regions of the northeastern parts of North America. It has been introduced to and cultivated in various parts of Europe, expanding its range beyond its original habitat. The plant thrives both in its natural woodlands and as a cultivated ornamental in temperate climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rich, moist woods, stream banks, swamps

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Rigour and severity

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Toxicity

The plant 'hobble-Bush' is mildly toxic to both dogs and cats, specifically from consuming the fruits. Symptoms might include gastrointestinal upset and lethargy. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if ingestion occurs to ensure pet health.

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Quickly Identify Hobble-Bush

Heart-shaped leaves with toothed margins, turning reddish-purple in fall.

Large clusters of creamy-white flowers transitioning to red then black fruit.

Drupes starting red, maturing to glossy deep purple, attracting wildlife.

Opposite hairy stems with lenticels, rooting branches upon contact with the ground.

Trunk bark evolves from warty gray to ridged and furrowed, distinctive as it ages.

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Care Guide for Hobble-Bush

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Hobble-Bush thrives in moist, well-draining soils, requiring weekly watering to remain hydrated. Once established, it shows moderate drought tolerance. Mulching is beneficial to retain moisture, especially during the active growing season when its water demands increase.

Fertilize: To care for hobble-Bush, use balanced or high nitrogen fertilizers in spring and fall. Apply a light dressing to boost growth, flowering, and fruiting, avoiding over-fertilization. Young plants need frequent feeding, while mature plants require reduced amounts. Ensure even distribution, avoiding direct stem or leaf contact.

Pruning: Hobble-Bush, a deciduous shrub with large white flowers, requires early spring pruning. Use thinning cuts for air circulation and remove dead wood. Shape by cutting back overgrown branches to foster new growth. Regular pruning promotes healthier blooms and disease prevention, ensuring optimal care.

Propagation: Hobble-Bush is a shade-tolerant shrub that can be propagated through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Use healthy branches with multiple leaf nodes, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining soil with high humidity and indirect light for successful root establishment.

Repotting: Repot hobble-Bush every 2-3 years in early spring using a large container to support growth. Ensure well-draining soil and consistent moisture. Place hobble-Bush in part-shade and monitor for growth issues to promote healthy foliage and robust stature.

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Images of Hobble-Bush

Attributes of Hobble-Bush

Distribution of Hobble-Bush

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Hobble-Bush

Care Guide for Hobble-Bush

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