Smooth witherod (Viburnum nudum)

Smooth witherod

Also known as: Witherod viburnum, Southern wild raisin

Smooth witherod (Viburnum nudum) is a deciduous shrub that will grow from 1.5 to 3.5 m tall. It is commonly found growing in bogs and wet woods. It prefers sun to part shade and grows best in acidic moist well-drained soil. Showy fragrant white flowers bloom in spring. This plant has edible berries that ripen in fall.

Scientific classification

Species

Smooth witherod (Viburnum nudum)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Spring, Early summer, Mid summer, Early winter

Harvest Time

1.5 m to 1.8 m

Plant Height

1.5 m to 1.8 m

Spread

Red, Brown, Burgundy

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Smooth witherod

Attributes of Smooth witherod

Growth Rate

As a slow-growing species, smooth witherod matures gently during the spring and summer, showing less tangible changes than fast-growing counterparts. Its leisurely growth produces a gradual height increase and fosters a moderate leaf production, aligning with its bio-rhythm. This unhurried rate aids resilience, supporting overall plant health.

Distribution of Smooth witherod

Distribution Map

Smooth witherod is a plant with its roots in the eastern regions of North America. It has been adopted and cultivated in temperate zones beyond its native habitat, thriving in various settings across continents with a propensity for moderate climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Swamps, moist, upland woods and clearings, exposed rock crevices

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The smooth witherod shrub makes a perfect addition to garden beds, either as a showcase ornamental or addition to borders and hedges. It provides endless interest, with vibrant autumn foliage, showy winter berries, and lovely summer foliage. You can plant it in wildlife gardens, where it draws in birds, or in pond gardens, where it can grow in moist soil.

Symbolism

Gaelic king, lord's legitimate authority

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Smooth witherod, including the following common varieties :

Possumhaw viburnum 'Pink Beauty'

Toxicity

The berries of smooth witherod are mildly toxic when not fully ripe, causing nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting. They should be avoided due to their resemblance to the deadly poison sumac.

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Quickly Identify Smooth witherod

Creamy white flowers in star-shaped clusters, 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) diameter.

Fruit transitions from light pink to purplish-black, creating a multicolored display.

Smooth, reddish-brown stems with scruffy pinkish-brown valvate buds.

Glossy, dark green leaves with pinnate vein pattern, turning reddish-purple in fall.

12-foot (3.7 meters) deciduous shrub with rounded silhouette and versatile light conditions.

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Care Guide for Smooth witherod

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Smooth witherod prefers consistently moist soil and thrives in environments with seasonal rainfall. While moderately drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from watering every 1-2 weeks. This adaptable shrub excels outdoors, promoting lush foliage and fruit display.

Fertilize: Fertilize smooth witherod in spring with a balanced 10-10-10 formula, then use a high-nitrogen product in late spring or early summer. Apply monthly during the growing season, avoiding over-fertilization. Adjust feeding during dormancy; proper fertilization enhances smooth witherod's vigor and ornamental value.

Pruning: Smooth witherod has glossy leaves and white flowers, benefiting from early spring pruning. Remove dead or crossing branches for air circulation, and thin the canopy for sunlight access. This maintains shape and encourages blooming. Use clean, sharp tools to avoid damage.

Propagation: Smooth witherod propagation succeeds with healthy, semi-hardwood cuttings featuring multiple leaf nodes. Use rooting hormone on cut ends, ensure a well-draining medium, and maintain consistent moisture. Ideal conditions include warmth and indirect sunlight to promote root growth while preventing stem rot.

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Images of Smooth witherod

Attributes of Smooth witherod

Distribution of Smooth witherod

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Smooth witherod

Care Guide for Smooth witherod

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